Longtime Eagles Guitarist Steuart Smith Leaves The Group, Reveals Parkinsonism Diagnosis
on Jan 24, 2025
Steuart Smith, Who Played With The Eagles For Nearly 25 Years, Announces Departure From The Band
Guitarist Steuart Smith recently released a statement sharing some sad news—he’s leaving the Eagles.
Smith has played with the Eagles since 2001. Most recently, he’s performed with the group during their ongoing residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas.
But on Friday (January 17), Smith did not appear onstage with the Eagles. Chris Holt, a musician, singer, and songwriter from Dallas, Texas, took his place.
Smith eventually explained the reason for his absence. In a statement quoted by American Songwriter, Smith shared he’s been diagnosed with Parkinsonism.
“It is with profound regret that, due to performance issues associated with my diagnosed Parkinsonism, I find that I must bow out of my role with the Eagles while I can still do so gracefully. It’s been a great quarter of a century and I had hoped to be able to finish out this year with the band, but I must now do what’s best for all concerned.”
American Songwriter also shared a statement from Eagles founder Don Henley, who said:
“Steuart Smith has retired from touring. The Eagles will be forever grateful for the extraordinary talents that he brought to both our recordings and live performances. Steuart will be greatly missed, but he will always be part of our musical family. We know our many fans join us in wishing him well.”
What Is Parkinsonism?
Following Steuart Smith’s reveal of his diagnosis and announcement he’s leaving the Eagles, many fans are left asking, what is Parkinsonism?
According to The Cleveland Clinic:
“Parkinsonism is an umbrella term that refers to conditions with similar, movement-related effects. These conditions involve slowed movements, and other symptoms are possible depending on the condition. These conditions are usually lifelong, and most (but not all) involve deterioration of your brain. However, most are also treatable.”
Parkinsonism refers to multiple conditions, including Parkinson’s disease. About 80% of all Parkinsonism cases are connected to Parkinson’s disease. Other conditions that also fall under the Parkinsonism label include multiple system atrophy or corticobasal degeneration.
Symptoms of Parkinsonism include:
- Slowed movements
- Tremors
- Stiffness or rigidity
- Unstable posture or gait
- Flexed, hunched or stooped posture
- Being unable to move or walk, known as “freezing”
Other symptoms vary depending on the specific condition a person has that falls under the Parkinsonism umbrella.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Steuart Smith at this time. We’ll sure miss seeing him play with the Eagles…
