Carly Simon Reveals Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis, Says She Was Also Treated for Skin Cancer

Legendary American singer-songwriter Carly Simon has revealed that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and has also undergone treatment for a form of skin cancer, ending years of speculation about her absence from public life. The 83-year-old music icon shared the news in a heartfelt statement, explaining that she has spent the past several years adjusting to significant health challenges while continuing to work on new music.

Simon said she initially sought medical attention after experiencing severe arthritis in one hip and both knees, leading to three joint replacement surgeries. Although the operations were successful, her mobility continued to deteriorate, prompting further evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, where doctors diagnosed her with Parkinson’s disease. She said she has since begun treatment, including medication to help manage stiffness and other symptoms associated with the progressive neurological condition.

In her statement, Simon described Parkinson’s as an unpredictable illness that affects each person differently. She explained that some days leave her exhausted and struggling to move, while on others she is able to think clearly, write, work and feel more like herself. She also noted that the condition impacts more than physical movement, saying it can bring anxiety, fatigue and apathy that are difficult to explain.

Alongside her Parkinson’s diagnosis, Simon disclosed that she underwent surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer, from her face. Although doctors successfully removed the cancer, she said the operation altered her appearance and left her feeling self-conscious about being seen in public, contributing to her decision to stay largely out of the spotlight in recent years.

Despite the health setbacks, Simon stressed that she has not stopped living or creating music. She announced that her new album, Comes in Waves, will be released on 14 August, marking her first collection of original songs since 2008. She said working on the album provided comfort and purpose during some of her most difficult moments, describing music as a refuge that helped her maintain hope and creativity.

Widely regarded as one of America’s greatest singer-songwriters, Simon rose to international fame in the 1970s with classics including “You’re So Vain,” “Nobody Does It Better,” and “Anticipation.” Over a career spanning more than five decades, she has won multiple honours, including Grammy, Academy Award and Golden Globe awards, leaving a lasting influence on popular music.

The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from fellow musicians and fans around the world, many praising Simon’s openness about living with Parkinson’s disease and her determination to continue making music despite significant health challenges. Her statement has also drawn attention to the realities of living with Parkinson’s and the importance of early diagnosis and ongoing treatment.

While acknowledging that her daily routine has changed, Simon said she does not want her illness to define her. Instead, she hopes her story will encourage others facing serious medical conditions to continue pursuing the things they love. With a new album on the horizon, the singer says she remains focused on creating music and embracing life one day at a time.