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'70s Music Icon Facing Serious Health Battle

By Geca Flores Parade - Trending Stories

Updated April 22, 2026 11:23 PM

Lou Gramm, the former frontman of the band Foreigner, shared a heartbreaking update about ex-bandmate Mick Jones.

While in the middle of the Historic Farewell Tour in celebration of their 50th anniversary, the 75-year-old vocalist spoke about his current relationship with the legendary guitarist.

During his guest appearance on Lipps Service, he told host Scott Lipps about his "pretty good" connection with Jones.

However, he revealed further details about his health, noting that the musician is battling an advanced stage of his illness.

"He's in the end stages of Alzheimer's," he told the channel, adding, "So our conversations are… I can't tell how he is. He's distant."

In 2024, Jones publicly revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease "several years ago," indicating that the illness had been present long before his confirmation.

"I want everyone to know that I am doing alright," the musician mentioned in a statement as cited by Billboard. "However, I've always liked to be at my best when performing onstage, and sadly, at present, I find that a bit difficult. I am still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence. Parkinson's is a daily struggle; the important thing is to persevere and remind myself of the wonderful career I've had in music."

Jones concluded the statement with a heartfelt message to fans, expressing his gratitude for the love and support he and the band Foreigner have received over the years.

"I want you to know I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, but especially so at this point in my life," he added.

On the other hand, the American Brain Foundation notes that Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease may be connected because both involve neurodegenerative processes and can share overlapping symptoms.

Moreover, they often coexist, particularly in the later stages.

Due to his health status, Jones was forced to halt touring to focus on his recovery.

Amid his hiatus, the 70-year-old guitarist has been teaming up with The Michael J. Fox Foundation, the world's largest non-profit organization dedicated to research and a cure for Parkinson's disease.

As for Gramm, he rejoined the band for a string of select performances for their tour.

He initially departed from Foreigner in 1990. After rejoining the band in 1992, he made his exit and left for good in early 2003 to focus on his solo career.

Now, as the band continues their 50th Anniversary tour, Foreigner is scheduled to have their European and U.K. tour in June and July, followed by a North American tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd, along with special guest Six Gun Sally, until August.

This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 10:13 PM.