Billy Joel has canceled all of his scheduled concerts through the summer of 2026 after going public with a diagnosis of the brain disorder Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, a condition that has “been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance,” per a statement.
“Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,” it continues. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.”
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Fans became alarmed after Joel fell onstage during a Feb. 22 show in Uncasville, Ct., which led him to postpone eight shows and undergo surgery for a then-unspecified medical condition. He was planning to return to action July 5 alongside Rod Stewart in Pittsburgh. All ticketholders will be automatically refunded.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” says the 76-year-old artist, who had dates on the books with Stewart, Stevie Nicks and Sting through July 3, 2026, in Charlotte, N.C.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is caused by excess levels of cerebrospinal fluid buildup in the brain, which can lead to problems with movement, bladder control and cognitive functions. According to the Yale School of Medicine, when the condition “is caught early, its effects may be reversed by a procedure called ventricular shunting. However, if normal pressure hydrocephalus is diagnosed later — once dementia has set in — those symptoms cannot be reversed.”
Last summer, Joel completed a historic 10-year residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden that broke numerous venue records, including the most lifetime performances there by any artist. His 100th appearance at MSG in July 2018 featured a surprise appearance by Bruce Springsteen, and Joel was also been joined by artists such as John Fogerty, AC/DC’s Brian Johnson, Paul Simon, Miley Cyrus, John Mellencamp and Olivia Rodrigo throughout the run.
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