Howard Stern is setting the record straight on how Billy Joel is holding up after news broke of the legendary singer’s health condition.
On a new episode of The Howard Stern Show, the longtime radio host revealed that he recently had dinner with Joel and gave fans some reassurance: “He’s doing fine.”
Joel, 76, made headlines last month after canceling the remainder of his tour dates. His team announced he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a neurological condition where excess fluid in the skull can affect balance, vision, and hearing.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, NPH is most common in people over 65 and is often treatable, sometimes even reversible, with surgery to drain the fluid.
In a statement posted to Instagram, Joel’s team explained that his recent concert performances had worsened the symptoms. His doctors have since recommended physical therapy and rest, and the Piano Man is hitting pause on live shows for now.
“Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,” the statement read. “He is grateful for the support from fans and looks forward to the day he can once again take the stage.”
Joel had sparked some concern back in February after taking a fall during a performance. Since then, fans have kept a close eye on his condition.
During Tuesday’s broadcast, Stern told co-host Robin Quivers that he and his wife Beth recently dined with Joel and his wife Alexis Roderick. “He said, ‘You can tell people, I’m not dying,’” Stern shared. “He’s got to deal with some medical stuff, but he was delightful.”
The pair even celebrated Joel’s May 9 birthday together, with Stern bringing out a guitar to play some classical music. “He threw up,” Stern joked about his performance. “He didn’t seem real impressed.”
Fans were relieved to hear the positive update. On Instagram, one wrote, “Good to hear this!” while another added, “Wishing the best for Billy! What a talented down to earth guy.”
As Joel focuses on recovery, his fans are clearly standing by him, eager to see him back behind the piano soon.
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