Singer Duncan Sheik Hospitalized in ‘Critical But Stable’ Condition

Grammy-nominated singer Duncan Sheik is hospitalized in critical condition while battling an undisclosed ailment, according to a statement posted by his family on Instagram on Wednesday (Sept. 16).

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“We would like to share an update with Duncan’s fans and the public,” read the statement. “Duncan is currently receiving medical care and remains in critical but stable condition. Out of respect for Duncan and our family, we will not be sharing any further medical details at this time. We kindly ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time and will provide updates when appropriate. Thank you for the continued love and support.”

At press time it was unknown why Sheik was in the hospital, but on Sept. 6 the 56-year-old singer posted a selfie on Instagram, reporting, “Sorry for the selfies. But I’m still bored in hospital. Do you like (good) magazines?” It appears as if “Barely Breathing” singer has been in a hospital for nearly a month judging by an Aug. 20 post of Sheik in a medical gown with the caption, “I would prefer to be home making music. But a bit of reflection is not too bad … boring hospital stays have their benefits (outside the obvious.)”

Subsequent posts from Aug. 23 and appeared to show the view from inside a hospital room of a sunrise and, on Aug. 26, a TV mounted on a wall. On Sept. 7 he posted yet another selfie, writing, “out of here in 60 hours.”

A number of fellow musicians sent their best wishes in comments on Wednesday’s post, including Lisa Loeb (“Sending love”), Matt Nathanson (“sending big love”), Broadway star Tyce Green (“Buddy you’ve got this. You’ve got this. !!!!!”) and Lizzo.

At press time a spokesperson for Sheik could not be reached for comment on his condition, but the latest news comes just before the opening of the manga novel adaptation Memoirs of Amorous Gentleman, a musical for which Sheik wrote the score; the off-Broadway show is slated to open on Oct. 15 at the Night Egg at the Culture Club.

Sheik is best known for his Grammy-nominated 1996 Billboard Hot 100 No. 16 debut single, “Barely Breathing,” as well as his Tony Award for best original score and best orchestration for the 2006 coming-of-age rock musical Spring Awakening. In the years since, he wrote the music for Alice By Heart, the 2013 musical adaptation of the Bret Easton Ellis horror novel American Psycho as well as the 2013 musical adaptation of Because of Winn-Dixie. His most recent album was 2022’s Claptrap.