'I want to stay productive': Neil Diamond, 82, reflects on his struggle with Parkinson's disease

Neil Diamond announced in 2018 that he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

UPDATED APR 1, 2023

Neil Diamond, who suffers from Parkinson's disease, continues to be active and productive (Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA: Neil Diamond is finding his new footing while battling Parkinson's disease. Diagnosed in 2018, the legendary singer-songwriter is now accepting his reality with a little gratitude as he talks about his condition. "I'm still doing it. And I don't like it. But … this is me; this is what I have to accept. And I'm willing to do it. And, okay, so this is the hand that God's given me, and I have to make the best of it, and so I am. I am."

Finding it difficult to accept what the doctor said in the first couple of years, the ‘Sweet Caroline’ singer replied, "I think this has just been in the last few weeks.” "Really?" the interviewer exclaimed. "But somehow, a calm has moved [into] the hurricane of my life, and things have gotten very quiet, as quiet as this recording studio. And I like it. I find that I like myself better. I'm easier on people. I'm easier on myself. And the beat goes on, and it will go on long after I'm gone", he said.

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'I was a little embarrassed'

Diamond was also asked what the hardest part of watching the Broadway show 'A Beautiful Noise' which was based on his life and starring Will Swenson as a young Diamond. He responded, "It was all pretty hard," Diamond said before adding, "I was a little embarrassed. I was flattered, and I was scared." "What were you scared of?" asked the CBS News interviewer, "Being found out is the scariest thing you can hope because we all have a façade. And the truth be known to all of 'em. I'm not some big star. I'm just me", said Diamond.

'I'm active. I take my meds. I do my workouts'

In a previous interview with USA Today, Diamond gave an update on his health, he said: "Well, I'm doing pretty well. I'm active. I take my meds. I do my workouts. I'm in pretty good shape. I'm feeling good. I want to stay productive. I still have my boys. I just can't do the traveling that I once did, but I have my wife there supporting me (and) friends."

The episode will be telecasted on Sunday, April 2, on 'Sunday Morning' CBS network.