Kit KittlestadJul 29, 2026 3 min read

Carly Simon Opens Up About Parkinson's Disease and Skin Cancer Diagnoses

Carly Simon performing at Radio City Music Hall in 2017. | Charles Sykes / Invision / AP
Carly Simon performing at Radio City Music Hall in 2017. | Charles Sykes / Invision / AP

For years, fans have wondered why Carly Simon has been largely absent from the spotlight. Now, the music icon is offering a heartfelt explanation. 

In a candid Carly Simon health update, the Grammy-winning singer revealed she’s living with Parkinson's disease and was recently treated for skin cancer.

The 83-year-old said she wanted to share her story after taking time to privately process her diagnosis. She hopes her openness will help fans better understand the challenges she's been facing in recent years.

Carly Simon’s Diagnosis

The biggest news from Carly Simon's health update is that she’s been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Carly Simon at the 1989 Academy Awards. | Wikimedia Commons / Alan Light / CC 2.0
Carly Simon at the 1989 Academy Awards. | Wikimedia Commons / Alan Light / CC 2.0

Carly said her health journey began after arthritis led to hip and knee replacement surgeries. Although those operations were successful, she continued experiencing problems with her mobility. Further testing at the Mayo Clinic eventually led to Carly Simon's Parkinson's diagnosis.

She described the condition as unpredictable. Some days she has enough energy to write and work on music. Other days are far more difficult. 

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination, though symptoms vary from person to person.

Skin Cancer Battle

Along with discussing Parkinson's disease, Carly also revealed she underwent surgery for basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer.

In Carly Simon's skin cancer announcement, she explained that the procedure changed her appearance enough to make her reluctant to appear in public.

Fortunately, basal cell carcinoma is highly treatable when caught early, and she said the surgery was successful.

Carly Simon Today: Still Focused on Music

Carly Simon performing in Los Angeles in 1975. | UCLA Library
Carly Simon performing in Los Angeles in 1975. | UCLA Library

Despite her health challenges, Carly is still committed to making great music. She announced that she'll release her first album of original songs since 2008, saying songwriting has continued to bring her joy throughout her health journey. 

While living with Parkinson's has its challenges, she said creativity has remained an important part of her life.

Fans Are Rallying Around Carly Simon

Carly’s health update has prompted an outpouring of support from fans who’ve admired her for decades.

By sharing her diagnosis, she’s offered a deeply personal look at life with Parkinson's disease and recovery from skin cancer treatment. 

While life might look different for her today, amazingly, she’s still focused on creating music and embracing each day as it comes.


Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.

Explore by Topic