Phil Collins’ Ongoing Health Struggles: The Untold Story

In 2021, Phil Collins sent shockwaves through the music industry and among his devoted fans when he candidly revealed the gravity of his ongoing health problems. His revelations were deeply concerning, as he described moments when he could “barely hold a stick” and felt as though he was teetering on the brink of death.

Despite the alarming state of his health, Collins displayed an unwavering commitment to his music career by continuing to perform with his iconic band, Genesis, during their final tour, aptly named “The Last Domino.” Collins has been remarkably open about the myriad of health challenges he has faced over the years. However, more recently, the spotlight turned to his daughter, Lily Collins, who shared a touching birthday message for her father, leaving fans wondering about his current condition and well-being.

The Evolution of Phil Collins’ Health Issues

Phil Collins’ health struggles have been a prominent part of his life for well over a decade. The journey began in 2009 when he sustained an injury to the vertebrae in his upper neck during a performance. This incident had devastating consequences, leading to severe nerve damage and casting a shadow over his musical career.

The aftermath of this injury was particularly brutal on Collins, affecting his hand function and, subsequently, his ability to play the drums and piano – talents for which he was renowned. Reflecting on this challenging period, he shared, “Somehow, during the last Genesis tour, I dislocated some vertebrae in my upper neck, and that affected my hands. After a successful operation on my neck, my hands still can’t function normally. Maybe in a year or so it will change, but for now, it is impossible for me to play drums or piano.”

This ordeal took a toll on the musician both physically and emotionally, to the point where he openly admitted to contemplating taking his own life. In his own words, “I wouldn’t blow my head off. I’d overdose or do something that didn’t hurt. But I wouldn’t do that to the children.”

In his 2016 autobiography, “Not Dead Yet,” Collins further bared his soul by revealing his battle with alcohol addiction, which began after his retirement and subsequent divorce from his third wife, Orianne Cevey, with whom he shared a nine-year marriage. At the time of the book’s release, Collins had already been sober for three years, marking a significant turning point in his life.

However, the challenges didn’t stop there. In the following years, Collins faced a series of health setbacks, each more daunting than the last. He was diagnosed as a type 2 diabetic and underwent treatment with a hyperbaric chamber after suffering from an infected diabetic abscess on his foot. This health scare was compounded by a harrowing accident in his hotel room, where he slipped during the night and hit his head on a chair. The accident resulted in a deep cut near his eye, which required stitches. This incident was attributed to a condition called “foot drop,” which he acquired as a consequence of his previous back surgery. To manage his mobility, Collins began using a cane and orthopedic shoes.

Around the same period, Collins battled acute pancreatitis, a condition characterized by rapid inflammation and swelling of the pancreas. Reflecting on this turbulent period, Collins shared, “Within months you’re drinking vodka from the fridge in the morning and falling over in front of the kids, you know. But it was something I lived through, and I was lucky to live through it and get through it. I was very close to dying.”

Despite these immense challenges, Collins demonstrated an indomitable spirit by embarking on his 2019 tour, aptly titled “Still Not Dead Yet, Live!” The tour was a testament to his resilience, as he continued to perform, albeit while seated on a chair and leaning on his cane.

The Final Curtain for Phil Collins’ Onstage Performances

Determined to bring joy to his fans, Phil Collins persisted in touring with his band, Genesis, even in 2022. The tour had initially been postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Collins, ever the consummate performer, expressed his frustration at being “physically challenged” and the limitations this imposed on his ability to play. He candidly admitted, “I can barely hold a [drum] stick with this hand, so there are certain physical things which get in the way.”

Despite his unwavering commitment to his music and his enduring love for performing, it became evident that touring was drawing to a close for the iconic musician. In his own words, “I think probably this will be putting it to bed for the last time.”

Reflecting on the motivation behind the final tour, Collins articulated, “When it’s good, it’s great fun. The audience always seem to come away having enjoyed it. So really it’s a question of going out there and doing what you do with your life. I’m 70 … and I’ve been in this band since I was 19.”

Phil Collins, the legendary musician, has had numerous hits throughout his illustrious career. Some of his most iconic and memorable hits include:

1. “In the Air Tonight” – Released in 1981, this song is perhaps one of Phil Collins’ most famous tracks. Its haunting drum intro and emotional lyrics have made it a timeless classic.
2. “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” – This ballad, released in 1984, was the theme song for the film of the same name. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
3. “Another Day in Paradise” – Released in 1989, this song tackled the issue of homelessness and became one of Collins’ biggest hits, topping the charts in several countries.
4. “Easy Lover” – A duet with Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire, this upbeat track was released in 1984 and was a commercial success.
5. “Sussudio” – This catchy and upbeat song from 1985 was a chart-topper and remains a favorite on classic radio stations.
6. “One More Night” – Released in 1984, this soft rock ballad showcased Collins’ vocal range and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
7. “You Can’t Hurry Love” – A cover of The Supremes’ hit, this song from 1982 became one of Collins’ signature tracks.
8. “I Don’t Care Anymore” – Known for its powerful drumming, this song from 1982 was a departure from Collins’ more melodic hits.
9. “Two Hearts” – Featured in the film “Buster,” this 1988 song received a Grammy Award for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or Television.
10. “Do You Remember?” – This nostalgic song from 1990 reflects on the past and features Collins’ distinctive vocals.

Lily Collins’ Heartfelt Messages and Reconciliation

While Phil Collins navigated the tumultuous waters of his health battles, his relationship with his daughter, Lily Collins, went through its own ups and downs. However, more recently, the father and daughter have rekindled their bond and patched things up.

Lily Collins, best known for her roles in “Emily in Paris” and “The Queen’s Gambit,” posted a poignant birthday message for her father as he celebrated his 71st birthday. Accompanying a heartwarming photograph of her as a baby sitting on her dad’s shoulders, she wrote, “Happy birthday, Dad. I may no longer fit in your arms or sit comfortably on your shoulders, but you continue to hug me tightly when I need it most.”

She continued by expressing her enduring need for her father’s presence in her life, assuring him that, regardless of her age or life’s twists and turns, she would always rely on him for support. She expressed her gratitude for the moments and memories they shared, both as a child and as an adult, and thanked him for inspiring her and supporting her journey as a woman. Lily’s message was filled with love and appreciation, demonstrating the profound bond between father and daughter.

In conclusion, Phil Collins’ health struggles have been a harrowing journey marked by physical and emotional trials. While his touring days may be behind him, his legacy as a musician and the enduring love of his family, particularly his daughter Lily, continue to shine brightly. The resilience and determination that carried him through his health challenges are a testament to his character and the indelible mark he has left on the world of music and in the hearts of those who admire him.

Phil Collins is an English musician, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, actor, and writer who has a net worth of $350 million.