Neil Diamond Reveals He Has Parkinson’s Disease, Retires From Touring

Neil Diamond is set to release his latest album in February. Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images

Singer Neil Diamond, whose career spans decades, has revealed that he has Parkinson’s disease, saying that he is retiring from touring.

“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,” said Diamond in a statement, according to USA Today.

The diagnosis forced him to cancel the third portion of his 50th anniversary tour, which was slated to extend to New Zealand and Australia in March.

“The onset of the disease has made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis,” the 76-year-old singer said, adding that tickets will be refunded.

“My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows,” he said, according to CBS News.

“My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world,” he said. “You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ’so good, so good, so good' thanks to you.”

“Sweet Caroline,” ‘‘America,“ ’'Love on the Rocks,” and ”Hello Again” are hits that he’s known for.

Diamond, who turns 77 on Wednesday, will get a lifetime achievement award at the Grammy Awards on Sunday.

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