Phil Collins, the beloved drummer of Genesis and the unmistakable voice behind “In the Air Tonight,” has shared some concerning news about his health. Sadly, his condition has not seen any improvement; in fact, it has gotten worse.
Nowadays, Collins requires round-the-clock assistance to help manage his medical needs. This has become necessary because of his ongoing and escalating health issues.
A Heartfelt Update
In an unusual step, the iconic musician decided to speak publicly about his health in a recent podcast as he approaches his 75th birthday. During his appearance on BBC’s Eras podcast, he offered a rare glimpse into the challenges he’s facing.
“I now have a 24-hour nurse living with me to ensure I take my medications as prescribed,” Collins explained. “I’ve encountered problems with my knee, and really, anything that could go wrong medically, has gone wrong for me.”
Over the year, Collins has endured five intense knee surgeries, leaving him with only one good knee now.
He shared, “I am able to walk, but I need help, whether it’s crutches or a cane.” In addition, Collins copes with a condition known as drop-foot. This condition has left one of his feet numb following a spinal surgery back in 2007 and he has leaned on a cane for mobility since 2015.
Furthermore, a surgery involving his upper neck in 2009 came with complications. While aimed at correcting a problem that originated during Genesis’ 2007 tour, the procedure resulted in a loss of feeling in his fingers, forcing him to tape drumsticks to his hands if he wanted to play.
The Impact of Alcohol on His Health
Just four years ago, Collins appeared on stage in London for his final performance on Genesis’ “The Last Domino?” tour. His 24-year-old son Nic admirably stepped in on drums. Yet, the aftermath of his long career mingling with health woes, compounded by COVID and kidney issues rooted in past alcohol misuse, are burdens he’s chosen to lay bare. It’s been two years since he quit drinking.
“I think I had gotten into the habit of drinking excessively, and my kidneys suffered as a result,” he admitted.
Reflecting on his attempted respite, he noted, “I wanted to come off tour and partake in all those things I missed out on. Well, I indulged too much—never drunk to oblivion, but there were tumbles. These things snowballed, and soon hospital visits became frequent.”
Despite a tough few years, he acknowledged, “It’s been really, well, tricky, intriguing, and challenging. But I’m okay now.” Even while continuing to face health issues, Collins candidly discusses how they have reshaped his life and his musical journey.
Reflecting on his early days, Collins first found fame at the tender age of 12, captivating audiences across beloved films like “A Hard Day’s Night” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” He also graced the stage in the West End’s “Oliver!” back in 1964.
Once Collins turned 18, he shifted his passion from acting to music, becoming the drummer for Genesis in 1970. And when Peter Gabriel exited the band five years later, Collins took the frontman role, propelling Genesis to extraordinary success.
