Phil Collins ‘much more immobile than he used to be’ says Genesis star in health update

Former Genesis guitarist and bassist Mike Rutherford has given a health update on friend and ex-bandmate Phil Collins.

Collins, 72, has experienced various health issues since suffering a spinal injury in 2007, which damaged vertebrae in his upper neck and also left him with nerve damage. The injury has impacted his ability to perform, with him being forced to use a wheelchair during Genesis’ last ever show last March.

Rutherford, also 72, was asked about how Collins is doing now during an appearance on BBC Breakfast to promote his upcoming tour with Mike + The Mechanics, in which Collins’ son Nic will be playing drums.

Rutherford said: “As you know, Phil is a bit… He’s much more immobile than he used to be, which is a shame, but at the tour, he was in good spirits.

“He’s fine now at home, enjoying life. He’s worked so hard over the years. I think he’s enjoying his time at home.”

When he was asked his opinion on who was the stronger drummer out of the two, Rutherford replied: “I always support the dads because I’m this generation. Phil’s the most amazing drummer, but Nic is fantastic too. Like his dad, but a bit different.”

One of the results of his ailing health is that Collins senior is no longer able to play the drums, with his son stepping in on the Genesis farewell tour.

Reflecting on what that was like, Rutherford said that “it was really nice to have the two of them side by side”.