Billy Joel Says He Had Brain Surgery After His Diagnosis: ‘Don’t Worry About Me’
Billy Joel says he is doing better after brain surgery helped relieve some of the symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus, a disorder he was diagnosed with in 2025. On SiriusXM’s Billy Joel channel Wednesday, the singer talked about the surgery he agreed to after noticing “my b
Billy Joel's revelation about his brain surgery is making waves in the music industry and beyond. The news is significant not only because of Joel's iconic status as a musician, but also because it sheds light on a relatively rare condition, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). NPH is often referred to as the "walking water on the brain" condition, and its symptoms can be misdiagnosed as those of other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Joel's decision to speak publicly about his experience is likely to help raise awareness about NPH and reduce stigma around brain surgery. As a beloved and enduring figure in the music world, his openness may encourage others to prioritize their health and seek medical attention if they're experiencing similar symptoms. The fact that Joel is already reporting improvement after surgery is also a testament to the importance of timely medical intervention.
What's next to watch is how Joel's health journey may influence his music and public appearances. Fans are undoubtedly eager to see how he'll bounce back from this experience, and whether it will inspire new creative work. Additionally, as more details emerge about Joel's diagnosis and treatment, it's likely that we'll see increased attention on NPH research and education – and perhaps even more celebrities speaking out about their own experiences with the condition.
Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.