Phil Collins says it's been a 'difficult, frustrating few years'
Musician opens up to presenter Zoe Ball about his health, sobriety and extraordinary career for the BBC Eras podcast
www.independent.co.ukPhil Collins is 74 going on 75 in late January 2026. He has been publicly discussing ongoing health issues and knee surgeries, and recent reports note he receives extensive care and is largely retired from performing.[1][2][7]
Latest headlines at a glance
- Health updates and denial of hospice rumors: In mid-2025, his representatives clarified he was in hospital recovering from knee surgery, not in hospice care. This theme continued into 2026 as coverage reiterated he’s dealing with knee problems and related mobility challenges.[2][7][1]
- Interviews about sobriety and career challenges: In January 2026, Collins spoke with BBC host Zoe Ball about sobriety, multiple knee operations, and the emotional impact of losing the ability to play drums, while noting he remains in a healing phase.[5]
- Public perception and legacy: Several outlets emphasize that while Collins is not performing live, his influence and body of work with Genesis and as a solo artist remain central to his legacy.[3][4]
What “età” means here
- If you’re asking for his age (età in Italian) as of now: 74 years old, turning 75 on January 30, 2026.[7]
- If you’re asking about current status or latest developments: he’s publicly described ongoing health challenges, including multiple knee surgeries and 24-hour care, with a notable shift away from performing.[2][5][7]
Where to look for the most up-to-date status
- Check reputable entertainment outlets for official statements from his team (e.g., BBC Eras podcast coverage, The Independent’s health interviews, and CNN’s health update pieces) since they frequently include direct quotes and confirmations.[1][5][7]
If you’d like, I can compile a brief timeline of Collins’s health updates and provide a one-paragraph summary in Italian or English, plus a short bibliography of recent sources.