Rolling Stone Legend Keith Richards Turns 82 Amid Tour Cancellation Questions

Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of the Rolling Stones, celebrates his 82nd birthday today amid renewed attention on his health following the band's decision to scrap plans for a major 2026 European and UK stadium tour.

The news, confirmed to Variety this week, revealed that Richards is said to be unable to commit to the rigors of another tour. Live dates in recent years have shown that he has faced challenges due to a long battle with arthritis, which he has called “benign” and said has forced him to change his style of playing.

According to reports, an American music critic claimed that the 82-year-old guitarist didn't feel up to another run of shows, stating that “when they properly sat down to discuss the tour, Keith said he didn't think he could commit and wasn't keen on a big stadium tour for over four months.”

Despite the tour cancellation, there's no indication that he's dealing with any sort of serious health matter, and he looked quite spry last month when he popped up at a Soho Sessions in New York to jam with Mavis Staples and Norah Jones.

A Remarkable Health Turnaround

Richards' continued vitality at 82 remains a source of fascination given his tumultuous past. As he matured, Richards gradually transitioned to a cleaner lifestyle. He quit smoking in 2019, stopped using heroin in 1978, and eliminated cocaine by 2006. While he still enjoys an occasional drink, he embraces a healthier way of living.

The guitarist has also adopted a more balanced, nutrient-rich diet, starting each day with a hearty breakfast of oatmeal, eggs, and smoothies. He maintains an active fitness regimen with a personal trainer, focusing on weightlifting and cardio to support his energy levels.

Speaking to the BBC in 2023 about his arthritis, Richards maintained a characteristically philosophical approach: “I don't have any pain, it's a sort of benign version. And also, I found that interesting, when I'm like, ‘I can't quite do that any more,' the guitar will show me there's another way of doing it. Some finger will go one space different and a whole new door opens.”

New Music on the Horizon

While touring plans are on hold, the Stones remain creatively active. Despite the cancelled tour, new music appears imminent. “You will be getting a new album next year,” guitarist Ronnie Wood said in September. “It is done.”

A spokesperson added: “The band were looking to tour earlier this year but couldn't make it work either. It's hard for their fans but The Stones will get back onstage when they're good and ready.”

Born December 18, 1943, in Dartford, Kent, Richards has been a driving force in rock music for over six decades, with his songwriting partnership with Mick Jagger standing as one of the most successful in music history. He married model Patti Hansen on his 40th birthday in 1983, and the couple has two daughters together.

As he celebrates another milestone birthday, Richards continues to prove that while a grueling stadium tour may no longer appeal, his creative spirit and passion for music remain very much intact.