Legendary musician Phil Collins has opened up about the serious health challenges he continues to face, revealing that his condition is an “ongoing thing” as he now requires 24-hour live-in nursing care.
In a recent interview on BBC Two’s Eras podcast with host Zoe Ball, Collins spoke honestly about the toll years of medical issues have taken on his body.
“It’s an ongoing thing,” Collins said, per Variety. “I have a 24-hour live-in nurse to make sure I take my medication as I should do. I’ve had challenges with my knee — I had everything that could go wrong with me, did go wrong with me… I mean, I got COVID in the hospital, my kidneys started to back up… everything that could have all seemed to sort of converge at the same time.”
The 74-year-old icon shared that while he now has “a knee that works,” he still relies on crutches for mobility.
Long Road of Health Struggles
According to Variety, Collins has battled health problems for nearly two decades, beginning with a spinal injury in 2007 that caused severe nerve damage. That injury triggered a domino effect of complications, including the development of drop foot after back surgery, which makes walking difficult. He also lives with type 2 diabetes.
These ongoing issues ultimately led Collins to retire from performing following Genesis’ final tour in 2022.
A Legendary Career
Phil Collins famously transformed Genesis from a progressive rock band into a global pop-rock powerhouse. He joined the group as a drummer in 1970, became lead vocalist in 1975, and helped steer the band to massive success with albums such as Invisible Touch.
Beyond Genesis, Collins built one of the most successful solo careers in music history. His 1981 debut Face Value launched with the iconic “In the Air Tonight,” followed by countless hits including:
- “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)”
- “Sussudio”
- “One More Night”
- “Another Day in Paradise”
- “You’ll Be in My Heart”
- “Take Me Home”
- “Easy Lover” (with Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire)
Over his career, Collins has sold more than 150 million records worldwide, earned seven Grammy Awards, and won an Academy Award.
Despite his health battles, Phil Collins’ legacy remains unmatched, and his music continues to resonate across generations.
We are praying for you, Phil.🙏🏽❤️🎼
