A representative for Phil Collins has dismissed recent rumors regarding his health, specifically denying that the musician is in hospice care. This clarification comes in light of online speculation following his recent hospitalization. On Saturday, July 26, the spokesperson confirmed to PEOPLE that Collins, 73, is recovering from knee surgery and that these discussions of him being in hospice are “completely incorrect.”
Earlier this year, Collins shared insights into his ongoing health challenges during an interview with MOJO magazine. He mentioned that these issues have dampened his enthusiasm for music, stating, “I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens. But I’m not hungry for it anymore.” Collins has faced significant health struggles, which culminated in his retirement from drumming in 2022, a decision prompted by the difficulties he encountered with playing the instrument he loved since childhood.
In a recent documentary titled “Phil Collins: Drummer First,” he elaborated on the emotional journey of not being able to play, expressing the pain of losing a fundamental part of his identity as a drummer. Collins described how hard it has been to reconcile with the physical toll that years of performing have taken on his body.
Despite these challenges, Collins remains hopeful about his future and music. He stated, “If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it.” This sentiment conveys a resilience and a glimmer of hope for his return to music at some point.
Rumors surrounding celebrities’ health can often spiral out of control; therefore, it’s refreshing to hear a definitive statement that clears the air concerning Collins’s situation, emphasizing that he is on the path to recovery. With the support of fans and their unwavering admiration for his artistry, there’s hope that he may someday return to the stage in some capacity.