In a remarkably candid and world-exclusive conversation, music icon Phil Collins has opened up about the extensive health challenges that have marked his later years. The interview, conducted by Zoe Ball for BBC Two's Eras – In Conversation series to mark his 75th birthday, provides a deeply personal insight into the physical toll his lifestyle and career have taken.
A Catalogue of Health Issues
Collins, the celebrated singer and drummer for Genesis, has long been known to suffer from type 2 diabetes and complications stemming from a serious spine injury that first emerged in 2007. However, in this revealing discussion, he detailed several additional ailments that have significantly impacted his mobility and daily life.
The musician disclosed that he has undergone five separate knee operations, necessitating the use of crutches or other assistance to walk. Furthermore, he now requires a 24-hour live-in nurse to ensure he properly manages his medication regimen. Perhaps most starkly, Collins admitted that his kidneys "packed up through boozing," acknowledging a period of excessive drinking that followed his touring days.
Convergence of Challenges
Reflecting on a particularly difficult period, Collins described how multiple health crises seemed to collide simultaneously. "I had everything that could go wrong with me, did go wrong with me," he told Ball. "I got COVID in hospital - my kidneys started to back up, you know, everything that started that could, all seemed to converge at the same time." He spent months hospitalised as a result.
Regarding his kidney issues, he was forthright about the cause: "I'd probably been drinking too much, and so my kidneys were messed up... I enjoyed coming off tour, coming off the road, but I thought, right, I'm gonna do all those things that I couldn't do." He clarified that his drinking was a daytime habit rather than all-night sessions, but conceded, "I guess I had too much of it."
Family and Legacy
Despite these profound physical struggles, Collins expressed immense pride in his family. He is father to five children, including actress Lily Collins from Emily in Paris, and two sons, Simon and Nic, who have followed him into drumming. "My kids are amazingly well adjusted considering some of the things that they've been through," he remarked, adding, "I'm very, very proud of all of them."
His son Nic has even stepped in professionally, playing drums for Genesis during their 2017 Hyde Park performance when Collins was in too much agony from his knee and spine conditions to perform fully. Collins recalled his son's talent with surprise and admiration, noting how it led to Nic's involvement with the band.
Reflections on a Varied Career
The interview also delved into Collins' storied musical journey. He reminisced about his almost accidental audition for Genesis, where his confident approach at the drums immediately impressed Peter Gabriel. The transition from drummer to lead singer after Gabriel's departure was, however, a source of significant anxiety. "It wasn't natural for me," he confessed. "The drums are a safety blanket... The first thing I had that scared the life out of me was having to go down the front and stand with just this microphone stand. You are just exposed."
During his peak years of balancing Genesis, a solo career, and collaborations with legends like Robert Plant and Eric Clapton, Collins faced considerable criticism for his ubiquity—a criticism he admits affected him deeply. "Yeah, I cared about it. Too much so," he revealed.
Looking Forward with Hope
Amidst the discussion of past trials, Collins struck a note of determined optimism. His current focus is on regaining full mobility and health. Furthermore, he hinted at a potential return to music, stating he has "some things that are half formed or were never finished." With characteristic wit, he concluded, "Maybe life in the old dog. Yeah. You'll see."
When asked what life has taught him, Collins spoke of a desire to make amends and a profound gratitude for his "varied and eventful playing career." He summarised his outlook simply: "I wouldn’t have missed any of it for the world."
The full interview is available as Episode 5 of Eras – In Conversation on BBC previews ahead of its official release.
