Billy Joel Takes the Stage Again After Brain Disorder Diagnosis
Billy Joel took to the stage for his first performance since being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
The 76-year-old artist delivered a brief two-song set during Wellington’s 30th birthday celebration in Florida on Friday, January 2, as reported by The Palm Beach Post. Joel performed fan favorites “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Big Shot” for the enthusiastic audience.
“I wasn’t planning on performing tonight,” Joel joked at the start of his set, clearly acknowledging the impact his diagnosis has had on his career.
Following his surprise performance, the crowd showed their appreciation by chanting his first name repeatedly.
In May 2025, Joel announced his diagnosis of NPH, which led him to cancel his tour to focus on recovery. (According to the Cleveland Clinic, NPH is a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the skull, potentially causing irreversible brain damage if untreated.)
“This condition has been worsened by recent performances, resulting in challenges with hearing, vision, and balance,” an Instagram post stated. “On his doctor’s advice, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been told to abstain from performing during his recovery.”
The message continued, “Billy is grateful for the excellent care he is receiving and is dedicated to prioritizing his health. He appreciates the support from fans during this time and is eager for the day he can return to the stage.”
Joel expressed a personal note as well, stating he was “truly sorry” to let down fans and was thankful for their “understanding” after the cancellation of his concerts.
Joel’s eldest daughter, Alexa, also shared her support.
“We love you and we’re here for you, Pop! I wanted to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support regarding my dad’s health diagnosis,” Alexa, whom Joel shares with ex-wife Christie Brinkley, posted on Instagram. “My dad is incredibly strong and determined to recover fully with his ongoing physical therapy as he rebuilds his strength.”
Weeks later, Joel’s friend Howard Stern shared that the singer’s situation was not dire.
“I met with Billy Joel two weeks ago [and] we had dinner together,” Stern, 71, shared on his radio show in June 2025. “He’s doing well. He does have some issues, but he mentioned, ‘You can tell people I’m not dying.’ He wants everyone to know that. He’s handling some medical concerns.”
Stern further remarked that it was “a pleasure” to see Billy and his wife, Alexis Roderick Joel. (Billy and Alexis, 43, are parents to two daughters.)
“We had a wonderful time with our wives,” Howard said, also mentioning his spouse, Beth Stern. “We enjoyed great conversation. I told him I’m having a lot of fun playing classical music on the guitar. He lit up because that’s something he loves. It was even his birthday, so I brought out my guitar and sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to him.”
After the dinner with the Sterns, Billy and Alexis continued to prioritize his health.
“It’s not resolved yet. We’re still working on it,” he mentioned during a July 2025 appearance on Bill Maher’s “Club Random” podcast. “My balance is poor; it feels like being on a boat.”
According to Joel, his symptoms “sound much worse than what [he’s] actually experiencing.”
