Deep Purple’s iconic frontman Ian Gillan, now 80 years old, has opened up about a serious health concern that could soon bring his legendary career to a close. In a recent interview with Uncut magazine, Gillan revealed that his eyesight has deteriorated dramatically, leaving him with only 30% vision, and he admitted that retirement “isn’t far off.”
Vision Loss And Daily Struggles
Gillan described how his failing vision affects even the simplest tasks. Working on his laptop, for example, has become a major challenge. He said he mostly relies on peripheral vision, tilting his head to read lines on the screen, a workaround he calls “achingly tiresome.”
He acknowledged that this decline won’t improve:
“I’ve only got 30 percent vision … That won’t get better. It makes life mysterious … But you find a way. You adapt.”
Considering The End Of The Road
When asked about what the future holds for him and Deep Purple, Gillan didn’t shy away from the difficult truth. He said:
“I think if I lose my energy I’m going to stop … I don’t want to be an embarrassment to anyone. We’re not far off that. It creeps up on you; you don’t really notice.”
At the same time, he remains realistic and cautious rather than precipitous. According to Blabbermouth, he clarified that despite the health struggles, there are currently plans for Deep Purple to continue through 2026, they already have shows booked.
A Legend Reflects On Aging
Even in discussing such weighty issues, Gillan’s famed wit remains intact. He joked about getting older, saying:
“It’s hilarious this growing-old thing … sometimes yes and sometimes no. … I walk down the road and hear something drop off, clang, there’s something else gone. … Nothing’s changed really apart from I can’t pole vault any more. Other than that, things move a little more slowly.”
His lighthearted honesty underscores a more serious mindset: when he cannot deliver the standard he’s set for himself, it might be time to bow out.
Legacy And What’s Next
- Gillan’s Role in Deep Purple: A cornerstone of Deep Purple’s signature sound, Ian Gillan first joined in 1969 and remains a central figure in the band decades later.
- Upcoming Commitments: Despite his health worries, Gillan confirmed that Deep Purple has a European tour slated for June–July 2026.
- Retirement Threshold: For Gillan, the benchmark is clear: he doesn’t want to hang on if his energy or vocal ability fades to the point where he can’t perform with dignity.
Final Thoughts
Ian Gillan’s candid revelations highlight a universal truth about aging, even rock legends must contend with time. While Deep Purple remains active, his admission that retirement “isn’t far off” suggests that the band may soon be approaching its final act, at least with Gillan at the helm.
For fans, it’s a bittersweet moment: the possibility of losing one of rock’s most definitive voices. But Gillan’s willingness to step away on his own terms, with respect for both himself and his audience, is a powerful reflection of his integrity and enduring legacy.
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