Billy Joel Reveals Successful Brain Surgery After Rare Disorder Diagnosis

Billy Joel has revealed that he successfully underwent brain surgery following the diagnosis of a rare brain disorder last year. The 77-year-old singer shared on his radio show that a shunt was implanted in his brain to drain excess fluid, after he began experiencing balance issues. "I had a feeling like I was on a boat, a kind of rocking motion. I wasn't stable on my feet," Joel recounted. "I agreed to the procedure and had surgery, it really improved things. My memory got better, my balance improved a bit, my ability to function was better."

According to Joel, doctors ordered him to temporarily halt his performances after he canceled all scheduled shows in May 2025 following the diagnosis. Joel said he was told that every performance caused something akin to a concussion every time I take the stage, and that he risked losing more brain cells the more shows he performed. "I realized that means I shouldn't be doing this right now. I need to get better," he explained. "They don't want me to be too stressed, so I'm doing physical therapy. I'm doing everything they tell me to do."

A statement published on Joel's Instagram account in May 2025 noted that his condition had worsened due to recent performances, causing hearing, vision, and balance problems. It was also reported at the time that he was undergoing specialized physical therapy, avoiding performances during recovery, and looking forward to the day he could return to the stage.

In an episode of his show broadcast this week, Joel sought to reassure fans: "I just want people to know, don't worry about me. I'm not going anywhere. I'm here. I'm still here." Alongside his medical challenges, he is also currently mourning the loss of his good friend and bandmate John Small.