Entertainment · October 15, 2026
Billy Joel reveals he can’t drive or perform anymore in heartbreaking health update
Billy Joel, 77, has revealed he is currently unable to drive and uncertain about his touring future following a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). The condition, involving fluid buildup in the skull, affects his balance, memory, and hearing. Joel stated that his neurologist compared performing concerts to sustaining a concussion due to the high volume and energy levels. While he underwent surgery to implant a brain shunt last month and reported improvements in his balance and memory, he is currently auctioning off over 70 of his motorcycles because his condition makes riding and driving "iffy." The singer has expressed a desire to return to the stage pending further medical testing.
Read the original coverage
- New York PostTabloid
Billy Joel reveals he can’t drive or perform anymore in heartbreaking health update
Read at New York Post ↗ - Fox NewsMainstream
Billy Joel says he can't drive, unsure about touring future after brain disorder diagnosis
Read at Fox News ↗ - TMZTabloid
Billy Joel's Neurologist Tells Him He Is Not Allowed to Perform or Drive
Read at TMZ ↗ - Rolling StoneMainstream
'I'm Not Allowed to Drive': Billy Joel Shares Health Update as He Prepares to Sell Vintage Motorcycles
Read at Rolling Stone ↗ - E! NewsCelebrity
Billy Joel Shares He Can't Drive or Perform in Heartbreaking Update After Brain Diagnosis
Read at E! News ↗
Reported by multiple outlets
- Billy Joel is 77 years old.
- He was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in 2025.
- NPH is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the skull.
- Joel is currently not allowed to drive due to the condition.
- He is auctioning off over 70 motorcycles from his collection.
- Neurologists told Joel that performing loud shows is like sustaining a concussion.
- He underwent brain surgery to implant a shunt to improve balance and memory.
- He must undergo further testing before he knows if he can perform again.
Reported by only some outlets
- Joel canceled his 2025-2026 tour in May 2025.
- Joel suffered a fall at a Mohegan Sun Casino performance in March 2025.
- Specific motorcycle details, such as a 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville gifted by Madison Square Garden, are valued between $10,000-$15,000.
- Joel stated that his neurologists specifically mentioned the volume, lighting, and stress of shows as contributing factors.
Confirmed
- Billy Joel was diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH).
- He is auctioning over 70 motorcycles.
- He underwent surgery for a brain shunt.
- He is currently prohibited from driving.
Reported
- Joel suffered a fall at Mohegan Sun in March 2025 prior to his diagnosis announcement. (New York Post)
- A specific 1978 Triumph motorcycle commemorates 150 sold-out shows at MSG. (Fox News)
Rumor
- He may never perform on stage again. (E! News)
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