Lewis Capaldi, a music phenomenon, disappeared temporarily from the industry.
And the reason? It was first revealed in 2022 that he had been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition that causes involuntary movements and vocalizations known as tics.
These symptoms, combined with severe anxiety, began to impact his performances and overall well-being.
As his career accelerated globally, the pressures of touring worsened both his physical and mental health, making it increasingly difficult for him to perform consistently.
Glastonbury 2023: A Turning Point
A moment that no one can forget came during his performance at the 2023 Glastonbury Festival.
Capaldi experienced a visible Tourette’s flare-up and struggled to continue singing his hit song Someone You Loved.
In an emotional moment, the crowd stepped in to help him finish the song. Following this, the singer announced that he would be stepping away from touring to focus on his health, acknowledging the “impact of my Tourette’s” and the need for recovery.
Hiatus: Focusing on Mental and Physical Health
After June 2023, Capaldi took an extended hiatus from music, prioritizing therapy and professional support. He later shared that taking time off helped him “cope better” with both Tourette’s and anxiety.
During this period, he remained largely out of the public eye, dedicating himself to treatment and self-care.
Comeback: His 2025 Return to Stage
After nearly two years away, Capaldi made an emotional return in June 2025 with a surprise performance at Glastonbury—the same stage where he had previously struggled.
This time, he completed his performance, telling fans he wanted to “finish what [he] couldn’t finish” before.
He also released his comeback single Survive, a song about resilience and recovery. His return marked not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal victory over the challenges he had faced.
Understanding Tourette Syndrome
Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocal sounds. Symptoms often begin in childhood and can worsen with stress or anxiety. While there is no cure, treatments such as behavioral therapy, medication, and stress management can significantly improve quality of life.
