Phil Collins, the legendary musician and former drummer of Genesis, has been open about serious health issues in recent years. At age 74 (born 1951), many fans are worried — so here’s a comprehensive look at what is known, what has been confirmed, and what is speculation.
1. Early Health Problems & Spinal Injury
-
Collins first suffered a serious spinal injury in 2007 while touring with Genesis. This injury damaged vertebrae in his upper neck and caused nerve issues.
-
Over time, posture from drumming also contributed to further deterioration. Surgeons intervened in 2015 with major neck surgery.
2. Physical Limitations & Effects On Musicianship
-
Because of his spinal issues and nerve damage, Collins lost much of the ability to drum. He has said he can “barely hold a pair of drumsticks
-
He also developed a condition known as drop foot, which makes lifting the front part of the foot difficult — affecting his mobility and ability to walk.
-
During the final Genesis tour in 2022, he performed seated, with his son Nic Collins taking over on the drums.
3. Recent Health Status & Admission to Hospital
-
In early 2025, Collins said in an interview with MOJO magazine that he has been “very sick”—which he described as more than just fatigue or injury. He also spoke about not having the desire (“hunger”) to make new music because of how ill he feels.
-
There were online rumours that Collins was in hospice care. These rumours have been denied by his representatives. It was clarified that he is hospitalised for knee surgery, not end-of-life care.
4. Other Health Issues
-
In addition to spinal and neck injuries, Collins has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
-
Pain and nerve damage in his hands and legs, largely due to years of drumming, posture strain, and multiple surgeries, have made playing instruments extremely difficult.
5. Emotional & Creative Impact
-
Collins has publicly said that the physical inability to drum or perform as he used to has been emotionally challenging. Long-time identity as a drummer makes this especially hard.
-
Though he sometimes thinks about going into the studio to try creating new music, currently his health limits him — he says he’s “not hungry for it anymore.
6. Rumors vs Reality
-
Rumours of hospice care or that Collins is terminally ill have surfaced online. These are false, according to his reps.
-
He is recovering from surgery and under medical care. His condition remains serious in some respects, but not what sensational rumours suggest.
7. What’s Next
-
It is uncertain whether Collins will record new music. Physically, he’s limited. But he has not ruled out possibilities if his condition improves.
-
His recovery from knee surgery is in process. He is likely to need more rest and medical care.
8. Final Thoughts
Phil Collins’ health journey is a reminder of how even legends are human. Decades of musical passion and performance can leave physical scars and lasting consequences. While he continues to be loved by millions for his musical legacy, the reality of his health makes it clear that his performing days are largely behind him.
What remains strong is the respect, gratitude, and emotional connection fans have for his music. Even in retirement and with all his health battles, his songs still resonate.
About the Author
