Internationally renowned singer Celine Dion has opened up in a rare and candid interview.
The interview teaser was released on Friday (June 7) by NBC, showcasing a glimpse of the 56-year-old iconic vocalist’s struggles with Stiff-Person Syndrome since her diagnosis in 2022. This will mark her first televised interview since the revelation, as she speaks with Today show’s Hoda Kotb.
In the preview, Celine shares the profound effects the illness has on her singing ability.
Continue reading to learn more…Describing the sensation, Celine said, “It’s like somebody is strangling you. It’s like somebody is pushing your larynx/pharynx.” She continued using a constricted voice to demonstrate, “It was like talking like that, and you cannot go high or lower.”
Celine went into detail about her experience, noting how the condition causes muscle spasms. “It started [in the throat]. No, okay, it’s gonna be fine. But it can also affect the abdomen, spine, and ribs,” she elaborated.
According to Celine, the stiffness at times makes her feel immobilized. “If I point my feet, they will stay like that, or when I cook—because I do enjoy cooking—my fingers and hands freeze,” she detailed. “It’s like cramping, but you’re stuck and can’t unlock them.”
She also revealed the severity of the condition, sharing, “I have broken ribs at one point because sometimes when it’s very severe, it can break.”
During a Vogue France magazine feature in April, Celine Dion spoke candidly about living with her condition, her current state, and the possibility of touring again in the future.
The full interview with Hoda Kotb will be broadcast on NBC on Tuesday, June 11 at 10pm ET.
EXCLUSIVE: Céline Dion sits with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb to shed light on her health and the significant impact stiff person syndrome has on her singing abilities.
Don’t miss the full conversation on June 11 on @NBC.
pic.twitter.com/kvsVX8ZjDt— TODAY (@TODAYshow) June 7, 2024
FAQ about Celine Dion and Stiff-Person Syndrome
Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by stiff muscles and spasms, predominantly affecting the spine and limbs. It can be painful and lead to muscle rigidity.
The condition causes muscle spasms and stiffness that can affect her ability to control her voice, limiting her vocal range and making singing a challenge.
In her recent interviews, Dion has discussed the impact of her health on her career and while she expresses hope, it remains uncertain when or if she may return to touring.
Celine Dion’s full interview with Hoda Kotb is set to air on NBC on Tuesday, June 11 at 10pm ET.