Phil Collins Says Drinking Led to Kidney Issues as He Marks Two Years of Sobriety

Legendary musician Phil Collins is speaking candidly about the serious health issues that have reshaped his life and ultimately ended his performing career.

In a new interview with BBC Two, the 74-year-old artist revealed that he has undergone five knee surgeries, battled kidney problems linked to drinking, and now requires round-the-clock medical care. The interview is part of Phil Collins: Eras – In Conversation, a five-part television special that concludes on January 26.

“It’s an ongoing thing,” Collins said, explaining that he now has a 24-hour live-in nurse to help manage his medications and daily care. A combination of health crises struck him in quick succession, including contracting COVID while hospitalized, which worsened his kidney issues.

Multiple Surgeries and Mobility Challenges

Collins detailed the long road he has faced to regain basic mobility. After five knee operations, he can now walk again, but only with assistance such as crutches. His struggles date back nearly two decades, beginning with a spinal injury in 2007 that caused severe nerve damage. A later back surgery led to “drop foot,” a condition that makes lifting the front of the foot difficult and severely impacts walking.

These issues were a major reason he retired from touring after Genesis’ final tour in 2022, where he performed while seated and left drumming duties to his son.

Kidney Problems and Two Years of Sobriety

Collins also spoke openly about how alcohol contributed to his declining health. He said years of daytime drinking eventually took a toll on his kidneys, leading to months spent in the hospital. While he said he was never someone who drank all night, he admitted he had “too much of it.”

The good news: Collins recently marked two years of sobriety, a milestone he described with quiet pride.

Life After the Stage — and a Possible Creative Spark

In recent years, Collins has been clear that his health leaves him with little energy or ability to record new music. He previously said he could “barely hold a stick” in one hand, making drumming impossible.

However, when interviewer Zoe Ball gently pushed him about returning to the studio, Collins offered a glimmer of hope. He revealed he has several unfinished or partially formed songs and hinted that creativity may not be completely behind him.

“Maybe life in the old dog,” he said with a smile. “You’ll see.”

For now, Collins remains focused on managing his health, but his words suggest that—even after years of setbacks—he’s not entirely done dreaming of music.