Phil Collins faced potential life-support termination during an April 2024 hospitalization after acute organ failure caused by drinking, according to a new interview with The Sunday Times. The 75-year-old Genesis musician was unconscious in a Swiss hospital when his manager summoned his five children to his bedside as his kidneys and other organs shut down.
Inside the April 2024 Hospitalization and Organ Failure
Doctors weighed whether to keep the drummer on life support as his condition deteriorated rapidly. According to Collins, he had no awareness of the severity of the crisis while it unfolded. “There were some decisions to be made about, ‘Do we keep Phil on life support?’ kind of thing,” Collins told The Sunday Times. “My kidneys were packing up, my organs were just seizing up.”
Family members gathered at his bedside to say goodbye, fearing he would not survive the ordeal. “People were coming to say goodbye, but I don’t remember them coming,” Collins said. “I didn’t have any idea this was going on. They were all worried that they wouldn’t see me again. It could all have gone so terribly wrong.”
Family Reunion and Recovery in London
Collins ultimately recovered from the health scare and has since stopped drinking entirely. The recovery paved the way for a family reunion at London’s Mandarin Oriental, where Collins spent four days celebrating the new year with his children. His daughter, Lily Collins, sat by his side in tears during the gathering.
“I never thought I’d get these moments,” Lily Collins told her father, according to the musician. “We had an incredible time. I can’t overemphasize how fantastic it was,” Collins added.
Did You Know?
Phil Collins was named one of the 100 Best Drummers of All Time by Consequence. Despite his health challenges, his rhythmic legacy spans decades with both Genesis and a solo career.
Ongoing Health Complications and Touring Limitations
The recent organ failure compounds years of physical challenges for the artist. Collins has undergone multiple spinal and knee surgeries, leaving him able to walk only with the aid of crutches. Severe nerve damage has left him unable to hold a drumstick, while ongoing battles with diabetes and kidney issues require a live-in nurse around the clock.
These physical limitations heavily impacted his final performances. During Genesis’ farewell trek, “The Last Domino? Tour,” which concluded in London in March 2022, Collins performed seated while his son, Nic Collins, took over drum duties.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction and Upcoming Box Set
Collins is scheduled to be formally inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist on November 14th. Genesis was previously inducted into the institution in 2010. Despite the upcoming honor, Collins confirmed he will not perform at the ceremony, noting that his inability to play instruments remains a deep personal loss.
“I wish I could play still,” Collins said. “It’s been my life since I was given a drum kit at three. I’ve always wanted to just do that.”
To celebrate his solo catalog, Collins is revisiting his landmark debut with Face Value (Full Value), a 45th anniversary box set. Set for a September 18th release, the collection features unreleased live recordings, demos, outtakes, and other rarities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Phil Collins’ April 2024 hospitalization?
According to The Sunday Times, Collins suffered acute organ failure, including kidney shutdown, brought on by his drinking.
Can Phil Collins still play the drums?
No. Nerve damage and multiple surgeries have left him unable to hold a drumstick, though he remains active in the music world.
What is the Face Value (Full Value) box set?
It is a 45th-anniversary collection of Phil Collins’ landmark solo debut, featuring unreleased live recordings, demos, and outtakes, releasing on September 18th.
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