Billy Joel has officially stepped away from touring after being diagnosed with a rare neurological condition. The 76-year-old singer announced on Friday, May 23, that he will cancel all of his remaining tour dates as he begins treatment for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a disorder that causes fluid buildup in the brain.
Shortly after Joel’s announcement, fellow musician and former child star Danny Bonaduce responded online with both humor and empathy. Bonaduce revealed that he was diagnosed with the same condition in 2023 after months of unexplained symptoms. He underwent surgery in Seattle, which involved the insertion of a brain shunt to help manage fluid levels.
Danny Bonaduce encourages Billy Joel
View this post on Instagram
Billy Joel’s team shared the news on his official Instagram page, noting that the condition has impacted his hearing, vision, and balance, especially after recent performances. Following medical advice, the singer now focuses entirely on rest and physical therapy to stabilize his symptoms. While NPH is a lifelong condition requiring ongoing care, Danny Bonaduce said the treatment made a major difference in his quality of life. He even encouraged Joel to reach out if he ever wanted to talk, offering words of hope from someone who has been there. Though the two musicians have never been close, fans appreciated the supportive message from one singer to another.
Bonaduce has continued to share his recovery journey and even makes fun of his situation. He often wears a shirt that shows appreciation for the doctor who performed his surgery, with the inscription, “I love Dr. Michael Williams.” His openness about living with NPH has brought more public awareness to the condition, which is often misdiagnosed or overlooked in older adults.
Looking ahead
While this chapter puts Billy Joel’s tour schedule on hold, the singer’s legacy remains firmly intact. Known for timeless hits like “Uptown Girl,” “Piano Man,” and “Vienna,” Joel has long been celebrated as one of the greatest songwriters of his era.
At home, Joel is surrounded by family. He shares two young daughters with his wife, Alexis Roderick, 43, and maintains a close bond with his eldest, Alexa Ray, 39, from his previous marriage to Christie Brinkley.