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Deep Purple’s Ian Gillan Reveals Severe Vision Loss, Says Retirement May Be Near

Upcoming shows remain scheduled, including a newly announced European run next summer.

Overview

  • Ian Gillan, 80, told Uncut he has roughly 30% vision and said the condition will not improve.
  • He described adapting to daily tasks, noting he reads his laptop screen using peripheral vision.
  • He said he would retire if his energy fades, stressing he does not want to be an embarrassment onstage.
  • Deep Purple performed one-off dates in November 2025 and has a European tour booked for June–July 2026.
  • Gillan’s disclosure comes days after former bandmate David Coverdale formally announced his retirement.