Legendary US singer Billy Joel has announced the cancellation of all his upcoming concerts following a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare condition involving a build-up of fluid in the brain. The 76-year-old performer, best known for hits such as Uptown Girl and An Innocent Man, was scheduled to perform at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on 6 June 2026 and Anfield Stadium in Liverpool on 20 June 2026.
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A statement shared on Joel’s official social media channels confirmed that recent live performances had worsened the condition, causing issues with his hearing, vision and balance. Under medical guidance, the singer is now undergoing targeted physical therapy and has been advised to step back from performing during his recovery. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health,” the statement read.
The condition, which predominantly affects individuals over the age of 60, is often difficult to diagnose due to its overlapping symptoms with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, according to the NHS. Joel, who previously rescheduled UK tour dates in March due to an unspecified medical concern, expressed regret over the cancellations, stating: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
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Joel has enjoyed a storied career since the mid-1960s, with five top 10 singles and eight top 10 albums in the UK alone. He has earned five Grammy Awards and 23 nominations, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Ray Charles in 1999. While fans will miss seeing the Piano Man perform live, there remains hope that he will return to the stage in future once his health improves.
