Phil Collins has recently opened up about his ongoing health struggles, revealing that he has endured a series of serious medical issues over the past years. During a candid interview with BBC Two, Collins shared that he has undergone five knee surgeries and that his kidney problems stem from his years of alcohol consumption. The musician, now 74, discussed how these health challenges have affected his daily life, particularly highlighting the toll they have taken on his mobility and overall well-being. His reflections come as part of a larger conversation captured in the five-part series “Phil Collins Eras: In Conversation,” which is scheduled to conclude on January 26.
Through this interview, Collins offered a detailed look into the complexities of aging with health issues, especially for an artist whose career has been rooted in energetic performance. As he reflected on his health journey, he emphasized both the extent of his ailments and his ongoing efforts to manage them, providing fans and followers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into his current life.
Health Challenges Over the Past Decade
Chronic Knee Problems and Surgeries
Phil Collins has battled significant knee issues for quite some time. He shared that he has undergone five surgeries intended to repair his damaged knee, ultimately restoring mobility—though he now needs assistance, such as crutches, to walk. The multiple operations reflect the severity of his condition, which has historically limited his ability to perform as he once did. Despite these setbacks, Collins expressed relief that his knee now “works,” even if he still requires support for walking.
From Spinal Injury to Nerve Damage
Collins’ health woes extend beyond his knees. His journey with spinal problems dates back to 2007 when a significant injury caused nerve damage. That injury led to the development of “drop foot,” a condition impairing his ability to lift the front part of his foot, which has made walking difficult. The difficulties persisted after back surgeries intended to alleviate his pain, ultimately affecting his mobility and forcing him to adapt his performance style.
Impact of Alcohol and Other Health Concerns
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Kidney Issues Linked to Drinking
A major revelation in Collins’ interview was his admission that years of alcohol consumption led to kidney problems. He explained that he had been drinking heavily and enjoyed coming off tour, seeing it as a way to unwind. However, he acknowledged that his drinking habits had negative health consequences. “I probably had too much of it,” Collins admitted, noting that his kidneys started backing up, necessitating medical intervention.
He shared that he recently celebrated two years of sobriety, marking a significant milestone in his health journey. Collins stated, “I stopped drinking at six o’clock in the evening. I wasn’t one of those guys who stayed up all night drinking; I would drink during the day. I guess I had too much of it, and it all caught up with me, leading to months in hospital.”
Managing Diabetes and Overall Health
In addition to kidney issues, Collins also suffers from type 2 diabetes. His health conditions have prompted him to reevaluate his relationship with performing and the arts. During Genesis’ final tour in 2022, he had to sing from a seated position due to his health limitations, with his son taking over percussion duties.
Despite these challenges, Collins has shown resilience. In early 2025, he stated that he had no plans to return to the recording studio, citing health constraints that made playing instruments difficult. He previously mentioned in 2021 that he could “barely hold a stick with this hand,” underscoring how much his physical health impacts his ability to continue in his musical career.
Future Outlook and Artistic Aspirations
Although Collins is aware of his health limitations, he remains philosophically optimistic about his musical legacy. When pressed by Zoe Ball about the possibility of creating new music, he hinted at unfinished projects that could see completion someday: “I’ve got some things that are half formed or were never finished, and a couple of things that were finished, which I like, so you know. Maybe life in the old dog. Yeah. You’ll see.”
This enigmatic response suggests that, despite his health setbacks, Collins still has creative ideas lingering in his mind. While he has distanced himself from active touring and studio work due to his ailments, he seems open to revisiting music on a limited basis, perhaps embracing more selective projects that accommodate his physical capabilities.
Reflections on Retirement and Future Plans
Collins’ decision to step away from live performance and studio recording was initially driven by his health, but it also marked a natural transition following decades of musical achievement. His departure from touring in 2022 was motivated by the realization that his body could no longer sustain the demands of high-energy shows. Despite this, his love of music remains evident, and he has not entirely closed the door on future collaborations or musical re-engagements.
He acknowledged that life has changed significantly for him, but also expressed a desire to remain creatively active within his physical limits. “Maybe life in the old dog,” he quipped, indicating a willingness to take things slow and focus on projects that are manageable.
Looking Ahead
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As Phil Collins continues to manage his health, the focus seems to shift toward stability and quality of life. His transparency about his struggles helps fans understand the toll that years of touring, performing, and lifestyle choices can take. While he may not return to the spotlight with the same intensity as before, there remains a sense of hope that he might still share new music—albeit on his terms.
The upcoming conclusion of the “Phil Collins Eras” series on January 26 promises to offer further insights into his life and career, allowing fans to reflect on his remarkable journey. Whether as a performer, songwriter, or simply a person navigating health challenges, Collins’ story highlights resilience and the importance of self-care in later years, inspiring many who face similar struggles.
