Tony Christie, 83, praises ‘supportive’ wife Sue for being ‘his rock’ amid dementia battle as he vows to keep performing and says his ‘knees will stop him faster than his brain’
Singer Tony Christie, 83, best known for the hit "(Is This the Way to) Amarillo", has spoken publicly about living with dementia since his diagnosis in 2023, crediting his wife Sue for being "his rock" and his main source of support. He says he intends to keep performing and recording despite the condition, insisting his ageing knees are more likely to end his career than his memory problems, and hopes his openness will encourage others facing a similar diagnosis.
Christie, who married Sue in 1968 and has three children with her, said she first noticed something was wrong when he began struggling with his daily crossword and encouraged him to see a doctor. He is currently on a farewell tour running from August 2025 to mid-2027, and says staying busy with music, along with medication and the use of an autocue for lyrics, helps him manage his symptoms. He also referenced the estimated one million people living with dementia in the UK, urging others not to hide their symptoms and to seek medical help early.
- Tony Christie, 83, discusses living with dementia since his 2023 diagnosis
- Credits wife Sue as his "rock" and chief support
- Vows to keep touring, says his knees will fail before his memory