New York‑based singer‑songwriter Billy Joel shared a health update ahead of an upcoming Gooding Christie auction of more than 70 motorcycles from his personal collection. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Joel said he is currently prohibited from driving and has not returned to full‑time performances.
Medical condition and its effects
Joel was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in May 2025. NPH is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid that can impair brain function, leading to changes in gait, balance, memory, vision and hearing. The condition is often described as a brain disorder, though Joel downplayed its seriousness, calling it “not that serious” and emphasizing that it primarily affects his balance.
“It affects your balance, it affects your memory, it affects your vision, your hearing. But I’m OK,” Joel told the reporter. “They have to test me further to see if I can go back and do performing again, which I would like to be able to do.”
Treatment and recovery
Following his diagnosis, Joel underwent brain surgery in which a shunt was placed to drain excess fluid. He reported improvements in memory, balance and overall function after the procedure. In addition to the surgery, he is participating in a prescribed physical‑therapy program and has been instructed by his doctors to refrain from driving and performing until his symptoms are better controlled.
“My memory got better, my balance got a little better, my ability to function was better,” he said in a prior interview with Sirius XM’s The Billy Joel Channel.
Impact on upcoming events
Because of the doctor’s orders, Joel cancelled several scheduled concerts and will not be performing at the motorcycle auction later this month. The auction, which will feature over 70 motorcycles from his collection, remains scheduled, but the singer will attend only as a guest.
Fans can follow Joel’s progress via his Instagram account, where a statement posted after his diagnosis explained that recent concert performances had worsened his hearing, vision and balance, prompting the decision to pause live shows.
Looking ahead
Joel expressed optimism that continued therapy and monitoring will eventually allow him to return to the stage. He emphasized his desire to resume performing once cleared by his medical team.
“I would like to be able to do” performing again, he said, adding that further testing will determine when it is safe to do so.
For now, the “Piano Man” remains focused on his recovery, adhering to medical guidance, and supporting the charitable auction that will benefit the Gooding Christie foundation.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
