Billy Joel Cancels Tour After Diagnosis of Rare Brain Disorder

Billy Joel has halted all touring after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. Doctors say performances have exacerbated his condition, “leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.”

Joel’s most recent show dates back to Feb. 22 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. A few weeks later, he announced a lengthy break from the road to deal with an unspecified “medical condition” that required surgery and physical therapy.

These newly canceled concerts were set to run from late April through early July. “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” Joel said in a new statement, “and thank you for understanding.”

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Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a disorder where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain. “It is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease,” according to the Alzheimer’s Association. “In fact, less than 20 percent of people with the disease are properly diagnosed.”

Joel, 76, is now “undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,” according to the official statement. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.”

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is rare, impacting only 0.2 percent of people in their 70s. Sufferers usually undergo surgery where a shunt is implanted to remove the excess fluids.

If you’ve already bought tickets, Joel’s statement says “you don’t need to take any action to receive your refund. It will be automatically processed back to the original payment used for the purchase.”