Phil Collins speaks about recent alcoholism and his health after three years of sobriety

In a new interview with Prog, published by Louder, Phil Collins described 'dark times' during a relapse into alcoholism in the 2020s, saying he was drinking wine steadily through the day until his organs began to fail. 'Kidneys and liver were waving the white flag. I was close to dying, and I hadn't realised,' he said.

He was admitted to hospital in November 2023, briefly discharged before returning weeks later, and spent about seven months in treatment overall, with his condition turning critical in April 2024.

Collins says he has not had a drink in three years and does physio three times a week. He also deals with drop foot, a nerve condition affecting his walking, has had five knee operations, and now needs a 24-hour live-in nurse to help manage his medication.

His last release was a 2010 covers album, but he says new music is not beyond the realm of possibility, though he has ruled out performing live at his upcoming Hall of Fame induction, saying he would need to be match fit to sing again.

Collins will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November as a solo artist, having already entered as a member of Genesis in 2010, alongside fellow 2026 inductees Oasis, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, Sade, Luther Vandross, Wu-Tang Clan and Joy Division/New Order. He is also marking the 45th anniversary of his 1981 debut solo rock album, Face Value, with an expanded box set due September 18.