Eagles Lead Guitarist Steuart Smith Announces Retirement Due to Parkinsonism

Steuart Smith has announced his retirement from his position as lead guitarist for the Eagles, following a diagnosis of Parkinsonism.

At 72 years old, Smith has been with the band as a touring co-lead guitarist for 24 years, performing alongside Joe Walsh. He was part of the Eagles’ initial Las Vegas residency at the Sphere, which ran from September 20 to December 14, 2024. His resignation was made public on Monday, January 27.

“It is with deep regret that I must step away from my role with the Eagles due to performance challenges related to my recently diagnosed Parkinsonism. I want to do so while I can still do it gracefully,” he stated in a message to the Los Angeles Times. “Being part of this band for a quarter of a century has been incredible, and I had hoped to complete this year on stage with the group, but I must prioritize what’s best for all involved.”

The Parkinson’s Foundation describes Parkinsonism as “a term used to denote a group of movement symptoms linked to various conditions,” including Parkinson’s disease. Symptoms may include rigidity, difficulties with walking and balance, as well as tremors. Smith did not clarify the specific type of Parkinsonism from which he suffers.

Don Henley, co-lead vocalist and founding member of the Eagles, confirmed in a different statement that Smith has “retired from touring.”

“The Eagles will always be thankful for the incredible talents he contributed to our recordings and live shows,” Henley, 77, expressed. “Steuart will be sorely missed, but he remains a part of our musical family. Our many fans join us in wishing him the very best.”

Smith, recognized for his dazzling performances on a double-neck guitar, will be succeeded by session guitarist Chris Holt, who first performed with the band on stage at the Sphere on January 17. Holt and Smith share a friendship and have toured previously as members of Henley’s solo band.

“I’m attempting to fill the enormous shoes of all three who came before me,” Holt told the Dallas Morning News on Thursday, January 27, referencing Smith and former lead guitarists Don Felder and Bernie Leadon.

“In my opinion, it features some of the most beautiful guitar work ever recorded,” Holt remarked. “It’s the greatest honor for me to take on this role, and it’s my responsibility to get it right.” The musician, who also provides harmony vocals along with his guitar playing, mentioned that performing with the Eagles is “definitely challenging.”

“There is an abundance of iconic lead guitar parts to master — solos that fans know inside and out — so I want to ensure I capture the tones and phrasing accurately,” he said. “The Eagles are renowned for their perfectionism, and the parts are complicated, so it’s a tall order to get it right every time.”

The Eagles’ Las Vegas residency will resume at the Sphere on Friday, February 14, and continue through Saturday, April 12.