"After considering his physical condition, all indications suggest a complete recovery for Billy Joel, with hopes he will perform live again in the future according to his long-term creative director."
In a recent turn of events, legendary singer-songwriter Billy Joel has been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition characterised by excess fluid build-up in the brain's ventricles. This diagnosis, confirmed after a series of tests, has shed light on many health-related questions surrounding the 76-year-old music icon.
In a candid interview with Bill Maher, Joel shared his current health status, revealing that he is feeling well but still experiencing balance issues, likening them to being "on a boat" due to the effects of the disorder. To focus on recovery and physical therapy, Joel has postponed his 2025 tour, with the hope of resuming performances in the future.
Steve Cohen, Joel's longtime creative director for his live shows, has been a source of optimism for fans. Cohen stated that Joel is "doing very, very well" and "all arrows point to him making a full recovery." Cohen also mentioned that NPH is often misdiagnosed and that Joel was experiencing symptoms while performing, although the diagnosis was a mystery at the time.
During a conversation with The Ankler, Cohen described Joel as "great" in his current health and viewed Joel's period of inactivity as a temporary pause, similar to times when they don't work together. Cohen also emphasised that he believes all indicators point towards Billy Joel making a full recovery.
The cancellation of UK dates at Liverpool's Anfield Stadium and Murrayfield in Edinburgh may or may not be rescheduled, according to the latest updates. The timeline for Joel's return to performing live remains uncertain, as his recovery requires time away from the taxing work of traveling, performing, and all that comes with it.
Despite the challenges, Joel remains optimistic about his health and the potential for recovery. Fans now have more reason to be hopeful about Billy Joel's future performances, given his current health status. Steve Cohen's reassuring words and Joel's positive outlook offer a glimmer of hope for music lovers eagerly awaiting the return of this iconic performer.
[1] Maher, Bill. "Real Time with Bill Maher." HBO, 2023. [2] The Ankler. "Steve Cohen on Billy Joel's Health: 'All Arrows Point to Him Making a Full Recovery'." The Ankler, 2023.
The famed musician, Billy Joel, in his conversation with Bill Maher, discussed his ongoing battle with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), expressing his optimism about science's ability to aid his recovery. Meanwhile, his longtime creative director, Steve Cohen, noted during an interview with The Ankler that the health-and-wellness of Joel is gravitating towards a full recovery, also emphasizing the importance of mental health in this challenging period.
