Key Highlights
- Phil Collins has given a rare health update on his ongoing issues.
- The musician has undergone five knee surgeries and developed kidney problems from drinking alcohol.
- In an interview with BBC Two, Collins discussed the challenges he faces due to chronic ailments.
Phil Collins Provides Health Update Amid Chronic Ailments
Home Music News on January 21, 2026, reports that legendary musician Phil Collins has opened up about his health struggles in a recent interview with BBC Two. The singer-songwriter, who turned 74 this year, revealed he has had to undergo five knee surgeries and is currently dealing with kidney problems stemming from alcohol consumption.
In an interview for the TV special “Phil Collins Eras: In Conversation,” which concludes on January 26, Collins spoke candidly about his health issues. “It’s an ongoing thing,” said Collins. “I have a 24-hour live-in nurse to make sure I take my medication as I should do.” He further elaborated on the medical challenges he has faced: “I’ve had challenges with my knee — I had everything that could go wrong with me did go wrong with me. You know, I mean, I got COVID in hospital, my kidneys started to back up, you know, everything that starts to sort of converge at the same time.”
The Impact on His Career
Collins has been dealing with health issues for nearly two decades. In 2007, he suffered a spinal injury causing severe nerve damage and developed “drop foot,” making it difficult for him to walk. He also suffers from type 2 diabetes.
The musician bid farewell to the drum kit during Genesis’ final tour in 2022, singing from a seated position while his son handled percussion duties.
Collins has expressed no inclination to return to the recording studio due to his health issues. In an interview with Variety in early 2025, he said, “I’ve got some things that are half-formed or were never finished, and a couple of things that were finished, which I like, so you know. Maybe life in the old dog.
Yeah. You’ll see.” Despite his health challenges, Collins remains hopeful about future possibilities.
Health Challenges Continue to Impact His Daily Life
“I had five operations on my knee now I’ve got a knee that works and I can walk, albeit with assistance,” said Collins. “Crutches or whatever.” He also addressed the impact of alcohol consumption on his kidneys: “I’d probably been drinking too much, and so my kidneys were messed up.” Collins celebrated two years of sobriety in 2025, reflecting on how he managed to make changes despite past habits.
Collins’ health struggles have not only affected his personal life but also his professional career. His decision to retire from performing has been a significant change for both the musician and his fans. While his future remains uncertain, Collins continues to share his experiences with transparency, allowing his audience to understand the challenges he faces.
Despite the obstacles, Phil Collins’ resilience and openness have resonated with many in the music industry and beyond. His candid discussion on health and sobriety serves as an inspiration for those facing their own battles.
