There was a time when almost everyone knew his voice.

Whether it was the unforgettable opening of In the Air Tonight, the emotional lyrics of Against All Odds, or the beautiful message behind You’ll Be in My Heart, Phil Collins created music that became the soundtrack to millions of lives.

For decades, the British singer and drummer filled stadiums, dominated the charts, and entertained generations of fans.

But in recent years, photographs of the legendary musician have left many admirers deeply concerned.

Instead of the energetic performer they remembered, they saw an older man struggling to walk, sometimes using a wheelchair or crutches.

The transformation was heartbreaking.

And now, at 75, Collins has spoken openly about the medical problems that dramatically changed his life.

The Health Problems That Changed Everything

Phil Collins was once famous for his extraordinary energy behind the drums.

As a member of Genesis and later as a solo superstar, he performed with a level of intensity that made him one of the most recognizable musicians in the world.

But years of physical strain eventually took a serious toll.

During the 2007 Genesis reunion tour, Collins suffered a spinal injury that resulted in lasting nerve damage.

The damage affected his hands, making it increasingly difficult to grip drumsticks.

For a musician who had spent most of his life playing drums, the consequences were devastating.

Collins later underwent surgery, but his physical difficulties continued.

He also developed a condition known as foot drop, which can make lifting the front part of the foot difficult and interfere with walking.

Eventually, even moving around without assistance became a challenge.

The Photographs That Worried Fans

In September 2019, Collins was photographed receiving assistance while getting out of a vehicle during his Not Dead Yet tour.

The singer was using a wheelchair because of his mobility problems.

For fans who remembered him running across concert stages, the images were difficult to see.

Yet Collins continued performing.

Rather than abandon his audiences, he adapted his shows to accommodate his physical limitations.

He often sang while seated, allowing the music to remain the focus.

His determination impressed fans around the world.

But the situation became increasingly challenging.

His Final Performances With Genesis

In 2021, Genesis reunited for what would become their farewell tour.

Collins returned to the stage alongside longtime bandmates Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford.

However, he could no longer perform on drums.

His son, Nic Collins, took over drumming duties.

Phil remained the lead vocalist, performing from a chair throughout the concerts.

The arrangement was emotional for fans who had followed Genesis for decades.

The band’s final concert took place at London’s O2 Arena on March 26, 2022.

For Collins, it marked the end of an extraordinary chapter.

After more than five decades in music, his physical limitations had made performing increasingly difficult.

Five Surgeries and Months in the Hospital

In January 2026, Collins gave a rare interview to BBC presenter Zoe Ball.

During the conversation, he revealed just how difficult the previous years had been.

He explained that he had undergone five operations on his knee.

He had also experienced serious complications involving his kidneys and spent months in the hospital.

The musician acknowledged that alcohol had become a problem after he stopped touring.

He said he had been drinking more than he should, and the consequences eventually caught up with him.

By January 2026, however, he reported that he had been sober for approximately two years.

His recovery required medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and considerable support.

Why He Needs a Nurse Around the Clock

One of the most surprising revelations from Collins’ 2026 interview concerned his daily care.

He explained that he had a live-in nurse available 24 hours a day.

The nurse helps ensure that he takes his medications correctly and receives the support he needs.

Collins also discussed his mobility.

Although he still requires assistance, he said his knee was functioning better after surgery.

He could walk with crutches or other support.

It was a meaningful improvement after years of painful medical setbacks.

And despite everything he had experienced, he sounded more optimistic about his health.

A Rare Public Appearance in 2026

In May 2026, Collins made a rare public appearance at Buckingham Palace.

He attended an event celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust, the charity founded by King Charles III.

Collins has a longstanding connection with the organization, having served as one of its earliest ambassadors.

Photographs showed him standing with the assistance of crutches.

He was joined by familiar faces, including fellow musician Rod Stewart.

For longtime fans, seeing Collins attending an important public event was encouraging.

Although his mobility remained limited, he was still participating in meaningful occasions and reconnecting with old friends.

The Latest News About His Health

Later in 2026, Collins shared another encouraging update.

He explained that his health had improved significantly compared with the previous year and a half.

The singer was preparing to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in November 2026.

He had already been inducted as a member of Genesis in 2010.

Although he did not expect to perform at the ceremony, he remained interested in music.

Collins discussed the possibility of returning to his home studio to explore unfinished songs.

For fans, that possibility offered a little hope.

Even if he never returns to touring, his creativity and love of music remain part of who he is.

The Extraordinary Legacy He Leaves Behind

Few musicians have achieved the kind of success Phil Collins enjoyed.

With Genesis, he helped create some of the most memorable progressive rock and pop songs of the 1970s and 1980s.

As a solo artist, he became an international superstar.

His hits included One More Night, Sussudio, Another Day in Paradise, and A Groovy Kind of Love.

He also wrote and performed songs for Disney’s Tarzan, earning an Academy Award for You’ll Be in My Heart.

His music crossed generations and genres.

Some fans remember him as the extraordinary drummer of Genesis.

Others know him for his emotional ballads.

And younger listeners continue discovering his songs through films, television, and social media.

A Music Legend Who Refuses to Give Up

The changes in Phil Collins’ appearance and mobility have understandably concerned his fans.

But his story is not simply one of declining health.

It is also about resilience, recovery, and learning to live with unexpected limitations.

He has endured spinal injuries, nerve damage, repeated surgeries, kidney complications, and years of physical challenges.

Yet he has continued speaking openly about his experiences.

His 2026 interviews also offered encouraging news: he has regained some mobility, reported improvements in his health, and remains interested in making music.

Phil Collins may no longer be the energetic drummer who once commanded the stage, but the music he created continues touching millions of hearts.

And perhaps that is the most beautiful part of his legacy.

Time can change a person’s appearance.

Illness can change what the body is capable of doing.

But great music has a way of living forever.

For everyone who grew up listening to Phil Collins, his songs will always bring back memories of first loves, family road trips, weddings, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments.

Which Phil Collins song brings back the most memories for you — In the Air Tonight, Against All Odds, or Another Day in Paradise? Share your favorite in the comments. ❤️