Music legend Phil Collins has shared a candid update on his health, revealing that he now requires round-the-clock medical care as he continues to battle an array of serious health challenges that have accumulated over the past two decades. The singer-drummer spoke openly about his condition in a recent interview that forms part of a BBC podcast special marking his 75th birthday on January 30, 2026.
In the interview, Collins said he now has a 24-hour live-in nurse to help ensure he takes his medications properly and manages his complex health needs on a daily basis. “It’s an ongoing thing,” he told presenter Zoe Ball, acknowledging that his physical condition has required continuous support.
Collins detailed a series of health problems that have compounded over the years. He has endured five knee surgeries, and while he eventually regained some mobility, he still walks with assistance such as crutches. His knee issues are only one part of his medical history — Collins also developed severe nerve damage from a spinal injury in 2007, which eventually led to drop foot and made traditional drumming impossible.
The Genesis frontman’s struggles also included a COVID-19 infection while hospitalized, which in turn led to kidney complications. Collins has openly connected some of these problems to past alcohol use, noting that drinking over the years contributed to his kidney issues, although he has been sober for two years.
“All that could go wrong with me did go wrong with me,” Collins said, describing how multiple conditions seemed to converge at the same time, resulting in prolonged hospital stays and lengthy recovery periods.
Despite the severity of his health struggles, Collins maintained a measure of optimism in his interview. He emphasized that he now has “a knee that works,” allowing him to walk with assistance. That progress comes after years of impairment that culminated in his decision to retire from touring following Genesis’ farewell tour in 2022, during which his son Nic Collins played drums while Phil focused on vocals.
His condition — including limited mobility, chronic nerve damage, and the need for constant medication management — means daily life requires significant support. The presence of a live-in nurse reflects the complexity of his situation and the importance of ongoing professional care.
In addition to discussing his health, Collins reflected on his long career with Genesis and as a solo artist, expressing pride in his achievements and gratitude for his family. He highlighted the positive aspects of his life despite recent hardships, noting how his children have navigated the ups and downs of his journey with resilience.
While Collins made no firm commitments about returning to live performance, he suggested that he might still explore creative work. He mentioned having unfinished and completed musical ideas he would like to revisit, hinting that “there may still be life in the old dog yet.”
Collins’ revelation comes as fans and media alike reflect on how different health issues have shaped the later stages of his life and career. After decades at the forefront of rock music — both with Genesis and as a solo artist — his transition from performer to patient underscores the physical toll of lifelong musicianship and personal struggles.
Despite the challenges he faces, many fans have expressed admiration for his honesty and resilience, applauding the way he has handled setbacks while maintaining a positive outlook.
