Art Garfunkel has opened up about his long-standing battle with psoriasis in an exclusive interview. The iconic singer, known for his partnership with Paul Simon in the duo Simon & Garfunkel, shared his journey with the skin condition, shedding light on his struggles and triumphs. In a heartfelt conversation with PEOPLE, Garfunkel discussed how he had kept his psoriasis a secret for many years, even while in the spotlight of his music career. Now, at 83 years old, he is breaking his silence and advocating for awareness and support for those living with psoriasis.
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Garfunkel revealed that psoriasis had been a constant presence in his life, affecting him during performances, tours, and his everyday routine. Despite the challenges it presented, he managed to conceal the condition from the public eye. He expressed gratitude that it never interfered with his music, a passion that remained untouched by the physical discomfort caused by psoriasis. However, the burden of managing the symptoms and seeking effective treatments took a toll on him over the years.
The Grammy-winning artist shared the arduous journey of trying various remedies, including creams, UV light therapy, and tar treatments, to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. While some provided temporary relief, the persistent itching and scaling made it a frustrating cycle for Garfunkel. It was only after consulting with a dermatologist and discovering a new biologic treatment called ILUMYA that he experienced a significant improvement in his condition. The positive results brought him a newfound sense of freedom and confidence, allowing him to embrace his true self without the need to hide anymore.
Dealing with psoriasis forced Garfunkel to make difficult decisions, such as stepping back from touring to prioritise his health. The condition not only affected his physical well-being but also had a profound impact on his mental and emotional state. Through the “I LUV YA for The Long Haul” campaign with Sun Pharma, Garfunkel aims to raise awareness about the emotional challenges faced by psoriasis patients and provide support to individuals navigating their treatment journeys.
Garfunkel credited his family, particularly his wife Kim Garfunkel, for standing by him through his health struggles and understanding the different phases of his condition. He emphasised the importance of having a strong support system in coping with psoriasis and shared how opening up about his struggles had strengthened his relationship with his wife. Their bond grew deeper as they faced the challenges together, and Kim’s unwavering love and support became a source of strength for Garfunkel during his health battle.
In addition to his personal journey with psoriasis, Garfunkel found solace in collaborating with his son, Art Garfunkel Jr., on the album Father and Son, released in 2024. The project allowed them to share their musical talents and create a special bond through their shared passion for music. Garfunkel expressed gratitude for his family’s continuous support and the joy of performing alongside his loved ones, which brought him a newfound sense of peace and contentment.
In conclusion, Art Garfunkel’s candid revelation about his struggle with psoriasis serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges. By sharing his story and advocating for awareness and support, he hopes to empower individuals living with psoriasis to seek effective treatments and find the strength to embrace their true selves. Garfunkel’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, love, and acceptance in overcoming obstacles and finding peace amidst adversity.