Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil revealed he suffered a stroke in his sleep late last year, a health scare that he said led to the rock band's decision to postpone its Las Vegas residency earlier this year.
Neil, 64, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that the episode occurred “on Christmas” and left the left side of his body temporarily compromised. He said doctors warned he might not be able to perform again, and that he had to relearn basic movements during a lengthy recovery process.
“I had to learn to walk again, and that was tough,” Neil told the newspaper. “The doctors said they didn't think I'd be able to go back on stage again. I go, ‘No, no, I'm gonna do it. Watch and see.’” He described being carried to the bathroom, then using a wheelchair, progressing to a walker, then a cane, and now no longer needing assistance. Neil said he has received months of physical therapy at his Nashville home and worked with a local football coach as part of his rehabilitation.
The singer credited steady therapy and determination for his recovery and estimated he is “90-, 95-percent” back to his previous level of health. He said the months following the stroke were “tough,” but added, “I'm back … and it's going to be great.”
Motley Crue canceled the first portion of a planned Las Vegas residency at Park MGM that had been scheduled to run from March 28 through April 19, citing Neil’s need to undergo a “medical procedure.” The postponement came weeks before the band was to begin performing and renewed public attention on the singer’s health.
Neil’s disclosure comes amid earlier public concern about his condition last month, when fans and media questioned his well‑being after the band altered its schedule. The singer’s account provides new specifics about the timing and severity of the episode and the rehabilitation he underwent to return to performing condition.
Motley Crue, formed in the early 1980s, has experienced several high‑profile lineup and health developments over the past decade as the band has continued to tour and stage residencies. Neil’s announcement clarifies why the band withdrew from dates this spring and offers a timeline for his recovery as the group plans future activities.
In his interview, Neil emphasized his intent to resume performing and dismissed the notion that the stroke would end his stage career. He described the recovery as a “full‑time job” and said he looks forward to getting back onstage as his rehabilitation continues.