Renowned pop singer Gerard Hugh “Leo” Sayer has been hospitalised for several weeks due to a sudden illness. The 75-year-old icon, known for his chart-topping hits such as “When I Need You,” expressed his regret to fans that he was unable to travel from his Australian residence to the UK due to unforeseen health issues.
Leo Sayer, who was born in Shoreham-by-Sea near Brighton and Hove, England, gained popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s, spending a total of 151 weeks on the UK Singles Chart. His first seven hit singles in the UK all reached the Top 10, cementing his success in the music industry.
In a recent Facebook post, Leo provided an update on his health, revealing that he was still receiving treatment in an Australian hospital for kidney, bladder, and prostate complications. Despite not having shared his condition publicly before, Leo expressed his gratitude for the support and well wishes he has received from his fans during this difficult time.
He said “I’m so sorry to have disappointed my fans but these things can happen to us 75 year olds! I’m still in hospital now but well on the mend. I will take a necessary short break from activities and be back fighting fit for shows in 2024. – particularly my UK and Ireland tour next autumn. Thank you everyone for all your concerns and good wishes…”
Leo’s fans took to Facebook to comment on his post sending their well wishes. One fan had this to say,“Take care & take your time to get really well and strong again to rock the stages…. Best wishes.” and another said, “Wishing you a speedy and full recovery Leo. Looking forward to your next UK tour whenever that takes place.”
His last significant success came in 2006, when DJ Meck remixed his timeless track “Thunder In My Heart”, propelling it to the top of the UK charts
but Sayer remained in the limelight when in 2007, his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother garnered a new generation of fans, as he became part of one of the most memorable moments in the show’s history. This occurred when Channel 4 declined to provide him with clean underwear.
Sayer’s latest album, Selfie, was released in 2019, recorded in the peaceful surroundings of his Queensland home with his wife, Donatella Piccinetti.
Leo is yet to confirm when he will be back on the road, along with new tour dates for 2024.