MESSAGE TO FANS

Billy Joel Breaks Silence on ‘Scary’ Brain Disorder Diagnosis

The legendary singer was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare but treatable brain condition, in May.

Two months after announcing his normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis in May, Bill Joel is assuring fans that everything is fine. “It was scary, but I’m okay,” the “Piano Man” singer, 76, told People. “I just wanted to let people know, don’t worry about me being deathly ill or anything.” Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the ventricles of the brain, creating pressure that can cause gait issues, problems with hearing and vision, and dementia-like cognitive symptoms. Though relatively uncommon, it’s found most often among seniors and is typically treatable with surgery. Joel received his diagnosis after struggling with his balance, vision, and hearing while on tour in early 2025. In May, the musician canceled all tour dates through July 2026 after doctors advised him to avoid performing and undergo physical therapy. “I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m okay,” Joel told People on July 21. “What I have is something very few people know about, including me, no matter how much you try to research it. I’m doing my best to work with it and recover from it.”