NEWS
Billy Joel has announced the cancellation of 17 shows he booked at stadiums across North America and England, due to his recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
In a statement, Joel and his team said the condition had been exacerbated by recent concert performances, “leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.” Under his doctor’s orders, Joel is said to be undergoing “specific physical therapy” and has been advised to stop performing while he recovers
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” said Joel. “Thank you for understanding.”
NPH is a brain disorder when there is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in an area in the center of the brain. According to the Hydrocephalus Association, the disorder can affect areas of the brain related to walking, thinking and bladder control.
In Friday’s statement, Joel and his team conclude with gratitude for fans and the note that Joel “looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.” Information on ticket refunds is also included, with refunds automatically being processed back to the original payment used for the purchase.
Back in March, Joel postponed eight stadium concerts he was scheduled to do through July, citing an undisclosed “medical condition” and saying that his “health must come first.” It remains unconfirmed if NPH is the same condition that caused those initial cancellations.
At the time, the announcement said Joel was “expected to make a full recovery” after a recent surgery, and was undergoing doctor-supervised physical therapy.
Zara Larsson has indicated that she may have cancelled her December 3 appearance at the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The singer initially confirmed that she would not attend, before removing the comment and sharing a more detailed explanation of why the performance no longer feels right for her.
The Swedish star was scheduled to take the stage at Etihad Live on Yas Island during the Yasalam After-Race Concerts. Zara and Lewis Capaldi were due to launch the weekend’s entertainment. However, supporters encouraged her to reconsider the booking because of concerns surrounding the United Arab Emirates’ reported connections to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary organisation accused of committing atrocities during the nation’s civil conflict.
A fan commented: “Please read about what UAE is doing to Sudan then cancel your Abu Dhabi show!” Zara responded: “I will not be going to Abu Dhabi.” Fans later realised that both comments had been removed.
She then shared that she had been considering what it means for her, as an artist, to perform in particular countries.
The Midnight Sun singer explained: “I think about that a lot in my life as an artist… I wanna perform and spread joy and music for people in every country, because no single person is their government.
“I’ve met so many wonderful people from every corner of the world and I know this to be true in my heart. I love people, and I love my fans soooo much.”
Zara acknowledged that her original comment “maybe came off as an impulsive response,” but explained that she had given the booking serious thought. She now believes withdrawing is the decision that “aligns with me the most right now, for many different personal reasons beyond politics.”
She continued: “Maybe I’ll delete both comments and do a better statement soon. I hope to sing with you in the beautiful future!”
