Carly Simon reveals Parkinson’s diagnosis as she announces new album

Singer-songwriter Carly Simon has revealed that she has Parkinson’s disease after years of worsening mobility problems.

In a statement released on 27 July, the 83-year-old said she had struggled to understand and accept the diagnosis before deciding to speak publicly about it.

Simon explained that she first believed her walking difficulties were linked to arthritis, which led to knee and hip replacement surgeries. However, her condition continued to worsen, and after an evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

She said the condition causes stiffness, fatigue and periods of apathy, adding that symptoms vary from day to day. Simon is receiving medication to help manage the disease but noted there is currently no cure.

The singer also revealed she underwent surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer, from her face. She said the operation affected her appearance and contributed to her decision to stay out of the public eye.

Despite her health challenges, Simon said she has continued working on music and is preparing to release Comes in Waves, her first album of original material since 2008.

Best known for hits including You’re So Vain and Nobody Does It Better, Simon said she remains grateful for the support of her family, friends, caregivers and medical team, adding: “I am still very much here.”