Eagles Guitarist Stewart Smith Reveals Health Update and Announces Departure from the Band

Stewart Smith’s Departure from the Eagles

The guitarist Eagles Stewart Smith shared his health status with fans and announced that he was leaving the group.

Smith has been a member of the American rock band since 2001 and issued a statement confirming that his recent diagnosis prevented him from continuing to perform with the band.

As reported by American Songwriter and Absolute Classic Rock, Smith stated: “With deep regret, I note that because of the performance problems related to the parkinsonism diagnosed recently, I believe that I should abandon my role in IGLZ; I can still do it elegantly.”

He continued: “A wonderful quarter of a century has passed, and I hoped that I could finish this year with the group, but now I have to do what is best for all involved.”

Impact of Parkinsonism

According to Parkinson Foundation, the term “parkinsonism” “is used to describe the totality of motor symptoms associated with several conditions, including Parkinson’s disease.”

The statement also included words from one of the group’s founders, Don Henley, who expressed his respect for Smith and acknowledged his influence on the band. “The Eagles will always be grateful for the extraordinary talent he brought to our music and live performances,” he wrote.

“We will really miss Stuart, but he will always be part of our musical family. We know that our many fans join us in wishing him all the best.”

New Member and Upcoming Performances

Following Smith’s departure, the Eagles have invited Christopher Holt to join the band. News was shared on Friday (January 24) via his IDOL Records label.

Holt’s addition comes after the group recently featured him on stage during a performance at The Sphere in Las Vegas last week. The band is currently engaged in a residency at this venue.

As reported by Parade, Holt expressed that he aims to fill Smith’s role in the band, stating to Morning News of Dallas that he is simply “trying to fill the gigantic shoes” of those before him. “For me, this is the highest honor, and my duty is to do it right,” he added.

In other Eagles news, the band has extended their performance dates at The Sphere in Las Vegas, confirming that they will continue through 2024 and into spring 2025. Visit here for tickets.

Earlier this month, the group also donated $2.5 million (2.1 million pounds) to the Fireaid charity concert for the victims of wildfires in Los Angeles.

Among the first wave of confirmed names to perform on January 30 at the Intuit Dome and Kia Forum are Billy Ailish, Lady Gaga, Rod Stewart, Katy Perry, Joni Mitchell, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sting, Stevie Nicks, Gracie Abrams, and Green Day.