Carly Simon has explained why she largely stepped away from public life in recent years. The singer-songwriter revealed that she has been privately adjusting to a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis while continuing to make music.
Carly Simon says her Parkinson’s disease diagnosis explains her years-long absence from the spotlight
In a statement obtained by People, Simon addressed fans who had contacted her with concerns about her “relative silence.” “The truth is, I’ve been learning how to live with Parkinson’s disease,” she said. Simon explained that she needed time to understand the diagnosis, adjust to it and decide how much she wanted to reveal publicly.
Her health difficulties initially appeared to stem from arthritis in both knees and one hip. Simon underwent three joint replacement procedures but continued to experience worsening mobility. At times, she needed considerable assistance to walk or stand.
After an extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, doctors diagnosed her with Parkinson’s disease. Simon began taking medication to help manage stiffness and other symptoms, though she described the condition as unpredictable.
Some days leave her too tired to begin her routine, while others give her more freedom to move, think, and work. Simon also explained that Parkinson’s disease can affect her motivation and emotional well-being, not only her mobility.
During the same period, Simon received treatment for basal cell carcinoma on her face. Doctors removed the cancer, but she said the surgery changed her appearance and made her more self-conscious about being seen publicly.
The mobility problems, Carly Simon’s diagnosis, cancer treatment, and emotional effects all contributed to her decision to withdraw from the spotlight. Still, Simon made clear that her health challenges have not ended her creative life. “But I have not stopped living, and I have not stopped working,” she said.
Simon recorded a new album, “Comes in Waves,” while adjusting to her condition. The project, set for release Aug. 14, will be her first full-length album of original material since 2008. She said working on the music gave structure and meaning to difficult days.
Simon has largely avoided public appearances in recent years. According to People, one of her last public appearances came in October 2019, while her last public performance took place the previous year.
Her announcement follows other artists sharing personal health updates. Céline Dion has continued planning her stage comeback after living with stiff-person syndrome, while Lionel Richie recently reassured fans after an onstage health scare. Jessie J has also spoken openly about life after breast cancer treatment.
For Simon, the announcement explains without allowing Parkinson’s disease to define her. She remains focused on writing, singing, and releasing new work.
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