Phil Collins Reveals He Nearly Died from Alcoholism

Phil Collins, former drummer of Genesis and Grammy and Oscar winner, has shared harrowing details of his battle with alcoholism that nearly cost him his life. In a new interview with The Sunday Times, the 73-year-old musician candidly spoke about the moments when doctors considered whether to keep him on life support.

His Organs Began to Fail

Collins revealed that in late 2023, about a year after his last tour with Genesis, he was rushed to the hospital. "My kidneys were failing, my organs were just shutting down," Collins told The Sunday Times, as reported by Deadline. The situation was so critical that his closest loved ones came to say their goodbyes.

"People came to say goodbye. But I don't remember them coming. I had no idea it was happening. Everyone was worried they wouldn't see me again. It could have gone so terribly wrong," the musician added. The medical team even considered the most difficult option: "There were decisions about, 'Do we leave Phil on life support?' I was very lucky to come out of that."

A New Chapter in Life

After that terrifying experience, Collins made a radical decision. "Needless to say, I haven't had a drop since then," he stated. He had previously spoken about the severity of his illness to MOJO magazine, saying he was "sick, I mean very sick."

The musician has been facing serious health issues for years. Alongside type 2 diabetes and complications from a 2007 spinal injury, he has undergone five knee surgeries. Due to pain, he can no longer properly hold drumsticks and had them taped to his hands during later performances. He is currently under 24-hour care.

Celebratory Honor in Los Angeles

Despite his health challenges, Collins is set to receive a major honor. As a solo artist, he will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on November 14, 2026, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. He previously received this honor as a member of Genesis.