Introduction
In 2016, legendary British musician Phil Collins made headlines with a rare and emotional appearance on BBC Breakfast, signaling a major turning point in his life and career. After years away from the spotlight, Collins sat down for an intimate and revealing interview that touched on his health struggles, family life, retirement, and eventual comeback.
The interview aired in October 2016, shortly after Collins had announced his return to music with a new memoir titled “Not Dead Yet.” The title itself became a central theme during the BBC Breakfast conversation. Seated comfortably but clearly showing signs of physical strain, Collins was open about his past battles with alcohol abuse, depression, and serious health problems that had affected his mobility and ability to perform.
Phil Collins spoke with unusual honesty, saying, “I didn’t feel like living anymore at times. I thought I’d retired for good.” These words resonated with viewers, as many remembered him as the energetic frontman of Genesis and the voice behind hits like “In the Air Tonight,” “Against All Odds,” and “Another Day in Paradise.” Now, in his mid-60s, the Collins who appeared on BBC Breakfast was quieter and more reflective, but no less sincere.
Health was a major topic of discussion. Collins explained that back surgery and nerve damage had left him unable to play drums the way he used to. He admitted that these physical limitations were deeply frustrating. At one point, he even revealed that he needed to use a cane to walk and often performed sitting down. Despite these challenges, he expressed a deep desire to reconnect with his fans and return to the stage.
The BBC Breakfast interview also explored Phil Collins’ personal life, especially his family relationships. He spoke warmly about his children, including Simon Collins, his son from his second marriage, and Nicholas, his youngest son. Nicholas, who was only 15 at the time, had begun playing drums — and would later join his father on tour. Collins’ face lit up as he talked about performing with his son, showing a softer and more vulnerable side to the usually guarded artist.
Perhaps most notably, Phil Collins used the BBC Breakfast platform to announce his comeback. He revealed plans for a new tour, which eventually became the “Not Dead Yet Live!” tour. Though some fans were skeptical given his health, Collins emphasized that he was not trying to relive the past but rather “just have fun again.” He said, “I missed being on stage. I missed the audience. I just want to give it another go.”
The 2016 BBC Breakfast interview marked a pivotal moment in Phil Collins’ story. It wasn’t just a media appearance — it was a declaration of resilience. With raw honesty, humility, and courage, he opened up about his darkest moments and his hope for a brighter future.
For many viewers, it was not just about the music — it was about watching a legend rise again