The Jam’s Bruce Foxton found it a “huge shock” upon being told he has Parkinson’s Disease, but he is hoping to “keep going and playing live for as long as I’m able to do it”.
The Jam’s Bruce Foxton has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.
Bassist Bruce, 70, took to Facebook to reveal the “brutal heat” and a chest infection was the reasoning for him axing shows in Kidderminster and Lincoln last week.
But Bruce also told how recent cancer treatment had caused him some “significant issues”, and he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in subsequent investigations into his health.
He said in a statement on the social media site: “Firstly, I just wanted to thank everyone for the messages wishing me well. Your love, support, and understanding means a lot.
“It was a difficult decision to cancel the shows last weekend (especially as my bag was packed!), but the brutal heat coupled with an underlying chest infection really knocked me for six, and the medical advice was to rest up while taking medication.
“I’m not sure where the rumour about being in hospital started, but luckily that wasn’t necessary, and I was able to rest up at home and I’m pleased to say that I’m feeling a lot better than I was.
“This latest knock back has brought about more speculation about my health, and that’s totally understandable.
“It’s no secret that I’ve undergone treatment for cancer and am still having scans on a regular basis to keep an eye on that.
“However, what you don’t know is that the cancer treatment in itself caused some significant issues for me and investigations into all of that uncovered the fact that I’m now facing a future living with Parkinson’s Disease…and I’m determined to do that as well as I possibly can.”
Bruce admitted it was a “huge shock” to receive the diagnosis, but he is hoping to “keep going and playing live for as long as I’m able to do it”.
He added: “As anyone coping with this diagnosis will know it’s a huge shock, and it’s taking a long time to let that sink in and for me to accept that my body and mind are dealing with something completely out of my control.
“I have to manage the challenges I now face physically and mentally on a daily basis, and some days are better than others.
“Back in May 2025 It was hard to accept that touring with FTJ [From the Jam] was no longer an option for me, but being officially diagnosed and having the right meds to help deal with symptoms has given me another chance to carry on doing what I love and what I live for in a relaxed and supportive environment.
“The response and love we’ve felt at our gigs has been second to none and I can’t thank you enough.
“With your help I’m going to keep going and playing live for as long as I’m able to do it. It’s good for me, my future health and hopefully good for all of you who still enjoy coming along to join with me, Mark, Craig, and Andy to enjoy those great songs.
“I will be working hard every day to give the best performance possible.”
Bruce previously underwent immunotherapy after a cancerous lymph node was found in 2023.
Last year, he retired from performing with band From the Jam – who were formed by former The Jam drummer Rick Buckler, who died in 2025, aged 69 – due to his health issues.
The Jam’s Bruce Foxton diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease
