Summary (tl;dr)

Iconic singer-songwriter Carly Simon, aged 83, has publicly disclosed her diagnoses of Parkinson's disease and basal cell carcinoma, explaining her recent withdrawal from the public eye. The announcement coincides with the upcoming release of "Comes in Waves," her first album of new original songs in 18 years.

Essential Background

Carly Simon is a celebrated American singer-songwriter, who gained prominence in the 1970s with hit songs such as "You're So Vain" and "Anticipation." She was recognized with a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1972 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. In recent years, Simon has maintained a more private life, leading to speculation among fans regarding her relative silence.

The Full Story

On Monday, July 27, 2026, Carly Simon released a statement revealing that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and recently underwent treatment for basal cell carcinoma on her face. Simon, who turned 83 last month, explained that these health issues, including mobility challenges following knee and hip replacement surgeries, contributed to her decision to step away from public view. Despite these personal health battles, she has continued her artistic work, with her new album, "Comes in Waves," scheduled for release on August 14, 2026. Simon stated that the process of recording this album "rescued" her and provided a sense of purpose during a challenging period. Her Parkinson's diagnosis came after an extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic.

Why It Matters

This announcement provides clarity to fans who have been concerned about Carly Simon's absence from the public eye, revealing the significant health challenges she has been facing. Her candidness about living with Parkinson's disease and skin cancer serves to raise awareness for these conditions. Furthermore, the upcoming release of "Comes in Waves" is highly anticipated, demonstrating Simon's enduring resilience and commitment to her music at 83 years old.

Geographic Location

• Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, United States (where her new album "Comes in Waves" was primarily written and recorded)
• Mayo Clinic, United States (where Carly Simon received her Parkinson's diagnosis)