Rock legend Eric Clapton is no stranger to the dark side of rock stardom. Decades of alcohol and heroin addiction have taken a devastating toll on the legendary guitarist’s body. At the peak of his addictions, Clapton was spending 16K a week on heroin and reportedly downing brandy daily before lunch. His habits left him isolated, performing rarely and living in the shadows of his former self.
Even after kicking heroin, Eric Clapton wasn’t free. He quickly slid into a relentless battle with alcohol, trading one demon for another. At his lowest, the singer recalls performing while lying down on stage, because he was too drunk to stand. Despite rehab and years of effort, it took Clapton nearly two decades to achieve sobriety.
Clapton, now 80, is reportedly suffering from peripheral neuropathy, a painful and incurable nerve disease. The condition has left him relying on a wheelchair most of the day, according to Radar Online. Those close to the Slowhand hit maker reveal the singer’s pain is said to be relentless. Some days, it makes even standing or holding a guitar an excruciating challenge. The disease is often linked to alcohol abuse, and in Clapton’s case, years of damage appear to have caught up with him.
Rock Legend Eric Clapton Held Together by Grit
For now, Eric Clapton still manages to perform when possible. However, standing during shows with grit and determination. But once he’s offstage, he’s wheeled away to rest. His condition is said to make movement feel like electric shocks, and simple tasks have become nearly impossible. Despite the agony, he’s putting on a brave face and continuing to do what he loves, while he still can.
Clapton’s inner circle fears that the meds used to manage his pain could tempt him back into addiction. After working so hard to stay clean, the fear of relapse looms large. Friends and family remain on edge, knowing how fragile his situation is. For now, he’s reportedly holding strong, but the emotional and physical toll is undeniable.
But the truth is, “He is in agony and feels heartbroken he has to be wheeled around by assistants in a wheelchair,” one source adds.”He looks embarrassed and shattered in his wheelchair and often pulls a hoodie over his face in case anyone sees him.”
Eric Clapton’s legendary status as a hitmaker and guitar god will always remain. Sadly, as his condition worsens, fans fear that they may be witnessing the final act of a rock icon. Despite his brave front, it’s clear Clapton is struggling. Whether he performs again or quietly slips from the spotlight, one thing is certain: his legacy is already written. But his final chapter could be the most heartbreaking of all.
Emma Taylor 
Casey James 
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