Neil Diamond announces he is retiring from touring because of recently diagnosed disease

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Legendary musician Neil Diamond says he’s retiring from touring and that he’s been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

The artist, who has been a mainstay in the music world for 50 years, revealed on his official website that doctors recently told him he has the disease. As a result, he decided to cancel the remainder of his 5oth anniversary tour, which had been ongoing since last year.

neil diamond photo
Getty Images | Theo Wargo

Diamond, who turns 77 years old on Jan. 25, reached out to all of his fans in a statement:

“It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years,” Diamond said.”My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.”

The canceled shows were set to take place in Australia and New Zealand this spring. Refunds for tickets will be issued to fans.

neil diamond photo
Getty Images | Kris Connor

“I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come,” Diamond’s statement continued. “My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”

Diamond recently finished the the first leg of his 50th anniversary tour, visiting cities around the U.S. and Europe. The singer-songwriter plans to be in attendance for a pre-scheduled appearance at the the 2018 Grammy Awards on Jan. 28.

The beloved performer has sold more than 150 million albums in his career. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. He first hit the music scene in the 1960s as the songwriter of monster hits like The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer.” He started his own singing career around the same with hits such as “Solitary Man” and “Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon.”

One of his most popular songs, “Sweet Caroline,” has become a classic anthem that has spanned generations, being played in sports arenas across the world, as well as in popular TV commercials. It never seems to fail to bring people to their feet, clapping and singing along.

Fellow celebrities and musicians shared their well wishes after hearing Diamond’s shocking announcement.

Our best wishes go out to Diamond during his treatment and for a relaxing retirement!

Celebrities, Entertainment, News

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About the Author
Marie Rossiter
Marie is a freelance writer and content creator with more than 20 years of experience in journalism. She lives in southwest Ohio with her husband and is almost a full-fledged empty nest mom of two daughters. She loves music, reading, word games, and Walt Disney World.

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