Ian Gillan Says Deep Purple’s Retirement May Be Near
Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan, now 80 years old, has opened up about his health and the future of the band. For many fans, his words feel like a gentle warning that the end of Deep Purple’s long journey might finally be getting closer.
Struggling With Vision Problems
Gillan revealed that he now has only 30% of his vision left, and it’s not going to improve. This makes everyday tasks—like using a laptop—very difficult. He has to rely on his peripheral vision, looking at the screen from the side just to read lines. He says he has learned to adapt, but it’s “achingly tiresome.”
Even with these challenges, Gillan still jokes about getting older. He says aging is “a laugh a minute,” though sometimes it isn’t. He laughs about hearing things “drop off” as he walks, and jokes that he just can’t pole vault anymore.
Thinking About Retirement
Gillan says he doesn’t want to keep performing if his energy drops too low. He doesn’t want to embarrass himself or the band. According to him, retirement is “not far off,” and the changes come slowly—“it creeps up on you.”
This honesty shows how much he respects the fans and the legacy of Deep Purple.
But Deep Purple Is Still Touring—for Now
Even with his health issues, Deep Purple still has many shows planned. The band has tour dates set through 2026, including concerts in Europe and Japan. So although Gillan believes retirement is approaching, he is not stepping away just yet.
He once explained that their “Long Goodbye” tour was never meant to be a real farewell tour. It was more of a marketing idea from promoters, and the band kept going because the demand from fans remained strong.
Other Band Members Feel the Same
Deep Purple’s other members, now all in their late 70s, share similar thoughts:
Ian Paice, the drummer, says they will keep playing as long as it’s fun and physically possible.
Roger Glover, the bassist, doesn’t want a big “final show.” He prefers the band to keep playing until it naturally becomes impossible.
Don Airey, the keyboardist, believes their last performance might happen quietly, without anyone realizing it’s the end.
All of them agree on one thing: they will stop only when they truly can’t continue.
A Legacy Built on Passion
Deep Purple is one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Hearing Gillan talk about his struggles is emotional, but it’s also inspiring. Even with fading eyesight and the challenges of age, his love for music remains strong.
Their story reminds us that musicians don’t just “retire”—they keep going because music is part of their lives. Whether Deep Purple ends soon or continues for a few more years, their impact will last forever.