Quick Answer: Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Carly Simon has revealed that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, explaining that she has spent recent years "learning how to live" with the progressive neurologi

cal condition. The 83-year-old also shared that she underwent successful treatment for basal cell skin cancer and is preparing to release her first album of original songs in nearly two decades, Comes in Waves, on August 14, 2026.

For years, fans wondered why Carly Simon had stepped away from public appearances. This week, the legendary singer behind classics such as You're So Vain and Anticipation answered those questions in a deeply personal statement, revealing that Parkinson's disease has reshaped her daily life. Rather than focusing on the diagnosis alone, Simon emphasized resilience, saying she is still creating music and finding joy despite the challenges.

Key Takeaways

  • Carly Simon has publicly revealed that she is living with Parkinson's disease.

  • She said she has been "learning how to live" with the condition before sharing the news publicly.

  • Simon also underwent surgery for basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer.

  • She remains active creatively and will release Comes in Waves, her first original studio album since 2008, on August 14, 2026.

  • She thanked her family, doctors, friends, and caregivers for supporting her throughout her health journey.

Why Did Carly Simon Reveal Her Diagnosis Now?

Simon explained that many fans had asked why she had been absent from the public eye. In response, she decided it was time to share the reason.

In her statement, she said it took time to understand the diagnosis, adjust emotionally, and decide how much of her personal health journey she wanted to make public. She described Parkinson's disease as unpredictable, noting that some days she feels exhausted while other days allow her to work, think, and enjoy life more normally.

How Parkinson's Disease Has Affected Her

Simon said her health problems initially appeared to be linked to severe arthritis in her hips and knees, leading to multiple joint replacement surgeries. However, when her mobility continued to decline after those operations, further testing at the Mayo Clinic led to a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.

She described several symptoms that have affected her daily life, including:

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced mobility

  • Difficulty walking without assistance at times

  • Anxiety

  • Apathy, which she described as one of the most difficult aspects of the illness

Simon emphasized that Parkinson's affects every person differently and that symptoms can vary from day to day. 

She Also Shared Her Skin Cancer Battle

Alongside her Parkinson's diagnosis, Simon revealed that she recently underwent surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma, a common type of skin cancer.

Although the surgery was successful, she said changes to her appearance made her feel self-conscious and contributed to her decision to stay away from public events and photographs in recent years.

Music Continues to Be Her Strength

Despite the health challenges, Simon says she has never stopped writing or making music.

During the time she spent away from the spotlight, she revisited unfinished songs and completed work on Comes in Waves, her first album of original material in nearly 18 years.

She described music as something that has "rescued" her, providing comfort, purpose, and a sense of normality while living with Parkinson's disease.

What Is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It develops when nerve cells in the brain responsible for producing dopamine gradually become damaged.

Common symptoms include:

  • Tremors

  • Muscle stiffness

  • Slower movement

  • Balance and coordination problems

  • Fatigue

  • Changes in speech or facial expression

Although there is currently no cure, medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help many people manage symptoms and maintain their quality of life.

Fans and Fellow Musicians Respond

Following Simon's announcement, fans across social media expressed admiration for her honesty and resilience. Many praised her decision to speak openly about Parkinson's disease while continuing to create music.

Her message has also helped raise awareness of the condition, reminding people that chronic illnesses often remain invisible to the public and affect individuals differently.

Conclusion

Carly Simon's announcement offers a candid look at the realities of living with Parkinson's disease while continuing to pursue a creative life. Rather than allowing her diagnosis to define her, the iconic singer has chosen to share her experience with honesty, gratitude, and hope. As she prepares to release new music, Simon's message is clear: life may move at a different pace, but it can still be filled with purpose, creativity, and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What illness does Carly Simon have?

Carly Simon has revealed that she has Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement. She also recently underwent successful treatment for basal cell skin cancer.

Why has Carly Simon been out of the public eye?

Simon said she stepped back while adjusting to her Parkinson's diagnosis, recovering from surgery, and focusing on her health and new music.

Is Carly Simon still making music?

Yes. She is set to release Comes in Waves, her first album of original songs since 2008, on August 14, 2026.

Is Parkinson's disease curable?

There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.