Bruce Springsteen's wife reveals cancer diagnosis in new documentary
What's the story
Patti Scialfa, the renowned musician and wife of rock legend Bruce Springsteen, has publicly disclosed her battle with early-stage multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer). The revelation came during the premiere of a new documentary titled Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday night. Diagnosed in 2018, Scialfa has been managing this condition which affects her immune system.
Tour impact
Scialfa's health has impacted her tour participation
Scialfa's health condition has significantly influenced her involvement in the E Street Band's 2023-2024 tour. She stated in the documentary, "I have to be careful where I go and what I do. That's my new normal right now." To minimize risk, she only participates in a few songs during performances. Previously, she had attributed her reduced presence on the tour to working on a solo album and spending time with her first grandchild.
Health first
Scialfa's health prioritized over tour commitments
In the documentary, Scialfa clarified that her primary reason for limiting tour participation is to protect her health. She stated, "I didn't feel as needed in a way because there were a lot of musicians on stage." "I did the first couple of shows, and as I saw how it was all rolling, I thought, 'This is good. This is completely intact. There's not much room for me to add anything special.'"
Musical journey
Scialfa's journey with the E Street Band
Scialfa has been a part of the E Street Band since 1984—joining as a backup vocalist just before their Born in the USA tour. She and Springsteen began cohabiting in the late 1980s and tied the knot in 1991. After an 11-year hiatus to focus on family, Scialfa returned to the band in 2004. Her contributions include performances in two numbers for Springsteen on Broadway and three solo albums: Rumble Doll, 23rd Street Lullaby, and Play It as It Lays.
Health issues
Meanwhile, Springsteen has also faced health challenges
Springsteen himself has not been immune to health issues during the tour. He had to postpone all his tour dates from September to December 2023 due to peptic ulcer disease. Additionally, he was forced to cancel further dates in Europe last summer because of "vocal issues" and medical advice. The documentary featuring Scialfa's revelation will be available on Hulu and Disney+ from October 25 onward.