Carly Simon Reveals Parkinson’s Diagnosis

In a statement to the BBC, 83’year’old Carly Simon disclosed her recent Parkinson’s diagnosis, describing the unpredictable and sometimes frightening progression of the disease. She notes that on some days she feels exhausted to the point of immobility, while other days give her a little more capacity to move, think, work, and feel herself again.

Simon, renowned for hits such as "You’re So Vain", says she has not stopped living or working. She added that she recently underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth on her face, which had affected her appearance and made her more self‑conscious in public. The procedure, she explains, offered fresh material for her self‑critical inner voice.

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain, nervous system and muscle control. It is the fastest‑growing neurological condition worldwide, with roughly 153,000 people in the UK currently living with it.

Despite her health challenges, Simon recently announced a new album titled "Comes In Waves" slated for release in August 2026. The first single, "Howl", was released last month and showcases her emotive, contralto voice addressing a friend dealing with heartbreak. The album promises to revisit themes of love, memory, family, self‑reckoning, and forgiveness, allowing space for contradiction and ambiguity.

Simon clarified that the diagnosis is neither a gift nor a blessing, describing it as difficult, frustrating, and sometimes frightening. She remains grateful for the support of family, friends, caregivers and medical professionals and continues to write, sing, imagine, laugh, worry, and sometimes endure being trapped in an overstuffed chair. "I am still very much here," she affirms.