Carly Simon reveals Parkinson's diagnosis

What the report says

BBC World News reports that singer-songwriter Carly Simon has disclosed she has Parkinson’s disease, saying in a statement to the broadcaster that she is still adjusting to a condition she described as unpredictable and at times frightening. Simon, 83, said fatigue and changes in mobility have affected daily life, but stressed that she continues to work and has not stopped singing.

According to the BBC, Simon said her difficulties were first linked to arthritis in both knees and a hip, but her movement did not improve after three replacement operations. She said she later needed significant help walking, prompting further assessment at the Mayo Clinic, where she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. She has been receiving medication and treatment, and also described anxiety, depression and apathy as part of her experience.

Simon also revealed she recently underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth on her face, which she said affected her appearance and made her more reluctant to be seen publicly. The BBC notes that Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder involving the brain, nervous system and muscle control, and reports that about 153,000 people in the UK live with the condition.

The disclosure comes as Simon prepares new music. Her album “Comes In Waves” is due in August 2026, with the single “Howl” already released. The BBC describes Simon as a defining singer-songwriter of the 1970s, known for songs including “You’re So Vain,” “Nobody Does It Better,” “Why” and “Coming Around Again.”