Musician Phil Collins, 75, has revealed that his children were called to his bedside to say their final goodbyes during a severe health crisis two years ago, which he now understands was brought on by his struggle with alcohol. The Genesis drummer and vocalist recounted a period where he was unconscious in a Swiss hospital, leading his manager to contact his five children to prepare for difficult decisions regarding his care. Collins admitted that he was unaware of the severity of his condition at the time, stating he “didn’t know he had a problem” despite his drinking habits.

A Brush With Death

The incident occurred in April 2024, when Collins found himself in a critical state. “My kidneys were packing up, my organs were just seizing up,” he explained in an interview. “People were coming to say goodbye…” He described being in a state where life support decisions were being contemplated. His children, Joely, Simon, Lily, Nic, and Mathew, were summoned, with the understanding that they might not see him again. “They were all worried that they wouldn’t see me again. It could have gone terribly wrong,” Collins recalled.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Collins stated he had no memory of his children being there or the extent of his illness. “I don’t remember them coming, I didn’t have no idea this was going on,” he admitted. This lack of awareness, he suggested, stemmed from his relationship with alcohol.

Alcohol Consumption Habits

Collins detailed his past drinking habits, which he did not perceive as problematic at the time. “I’d have wine I woke up. That was what I wanted for breakfast, a glass of wine… But I didn’t drink into the night you know. So I wasn’t really aware of having a problem to be honest,” he said. This pattern of drinking, starting from the morning, continued without him recognizing it as a sign of addiction.

While Collins has since recovered from the immediate health crisis, he continues to manage several other health issues. These include type 2 diabetes and nerve damage in his hands, which affects his dexterity. Following multiple surgeries on his spine and knees, he now relies on crutches to walk. Despite these challenges, he has found moments of connection, notably spending time with his daughter, actress Lily Collins, during his recovery. He described a poignant moment with her, saying, “She was sitting beside me in tears, saying, ‘I never thought I’d get these moments.’ We had an incredible time. I can’t overemphasise how fantastic it was.”

Reflections on Love and Relationships

Looking ahead, the “In the Air Tonight” hitmaker expressed a desire for companionship but feels hesitant about pursuing new romantic relationships. “I’d love to be in love again. I would love a relationship. Kissing somebody, for example. You know, pretty basic stuff,” he shared. However, he harbors doubts about finding a partner at this stage in his life, citing his introverted nature. “I think it’s probably too late for that. I’m not a very social person. I don’t, you know, I don’t go out,” he explained.

Past Relationships and Heartbreak

Collins’s personal life has seen its share of complexities, particularly concerning his relationship with Orianne Cevey, the mother of his two youngest sons, Nic and Mathew. The couple divorced in 2008 after seven years of marriage, but they reconciled and lived together for a period. In 2020, Collins was reportedly devastated to discover that Cevey had secretly married another man, Thomas Bates, while they were still residing together. Although Cevey is no longer with Bates, Collins remains cautious about rekindling their romantic relationship.

He confirmed that he and Cevey maintain contact as co-parents to their sons, Nic (25) and Matthew (20). When asked about the possibility of their relationship evolving beyond co-parenting, Collins mused, “Well, I’d like it to be. But I don’t think it’s a good idea right now. Just because I know what I’m like. I would probably fall again.” He acknowledged the deep affection they once shared, stating, “Maybe. I mean, we were very much in love.” This sentiment underscores his awareness of past patterns and his current reservations about repeating them.

Family and Health

Collins’s family has been a significant presence throughout his health struggles. His children, from his marriages to Andrea Bertorelli, Jill Tavelman, and Orianne Cevey, have been involved in his life, particularly during his recent health crisis. The singer, who adopted Joely, his daughter with Bertorelli, has five children in total: Joely (53), Simon (50), Lily (37), Nic (25), and Mathew (21). His health challenges, including diabetes and nerve damage, necessitate mobility aids, but he remains engaged with his family and reflects on his life experiences.

The near-fatal incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact of his alcohol consumption. While he has overcome the immediate danger, the experience has prompted introspection about his past habits and future desires. Collins’s candidness about his health, his past struggles, and his reflections on love offers a personal glimpse into the life of a celebrated musician navigating significant personal challenges.