Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 7, 2025 · Entertainment

From Glastonbury's Grit to Glory: Lewis Capaldi’s Remarkable Comeback

Lewis Capaldi has credited therapy for his triumphant return to music, two years after a crippling battle with Tourette's syndrome left him unable to finish his Glastonbury set

LEWIS CAPALDI'S COMEBACK OF THE CENTURY: SINGER CREDITS THERAPY FOR HIS TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO MUSIC

In a shocking turn of events, Scottish sensation Lewis Capaldi has made a stunning comeback to the music industry after a two-year hiatus. The 28-year-old singer-songwriter credits therapy for his triumphant return, saying it's been a "cornerstone" of his journey back to the stage.

Capaldi's career was left in shambles after he struggled with Tourette's syndrome during his headlining performance at Glastonbury in 2023. The emotional footage of him trying to power through his set has become an iconic moment in music history, but Capaldi reveals it was a dark time for him.

Capaldi was headlining at the Worthy Farm music festival in 2023 when his well publicised struggle with Tourette's manifested itself in front of thousands of fans (pictured)

"I thought I'd never be able to do this again," he admits. "Glastonbury's like the biggest deal in the world, and I was on the Pyramid Stage – it's a huge gig. But as soon as I got up there, I knew I couldn't keep going. The pressure was suffocating me."

Capaldi took a break from music to focus on his mental health, but he also needed to take a step back from the industry itself. "I didn't just need to get better; I needed a complete break," he explains.

The singer's struggles with Tourette's syndrome are well-documented. The condition causes involuntary noises and movements called tics, which can be both physical and vocal. Capaldi has been open about his battle with the condition, but even now, he says it's hard for him to watch footage of himself struggling on stage.

Reflecting on the performance, Capaldi admits he thought it would be the last of his career

"I don't watch it back as everyone else does," he confesses. "I feel sad when I watch it – it's not a beautiful moment like people think it is."

However, Capaldi's comeback is nothing short of remarkable. He recently released a new single called Survive, which is expected to feature on his upcoming third studio album. And in a surprise move, he took to the stage at Glastonbury once again – this time for a secret set.

The crowd went wild as Capaldi sang some of his biggest hits, including Someone You Loved. Choking back tears, he thanked fans for their support and said, "Two years ago, I wasn't sure if I'd ever do this again, but I'm back baby! Glastonbury, it's good to be back."

The singer-songwriter has teamed up with BetterHelp , the world's largest online therapy platform, for a new promotional campaign

But what's behind Capaldi's remarkable comeback? The answer lies in therapy. He's been working with a new counsellor for the past two years and says it's been instrumental in his recovery.

"The therapist I have now is amazing," he gushes. "He's the best one I've worked with – we've made so much progress together."

Capaldi credits his new therapist with helping him develop coping strategies to manage his Tourette's symptoms. He also praises the online therapy platform BetterHelp, which he's partnered with for a promotional campaign.

An emotional Capaldi made a triumphant return to the same stage for a secret Glastonbury set on June 25 (pictured), in conjunction with the release of new single Survive

"Therapy has been a massive part of why I'm able to be a musician again," he says. "It's not just about getting better; it's about living in the moment and appreciating what you have."

Capaldi's comeback is a testament to his strength and resilience. He's proven that with the right support, anyone can overcome even the toughest challenges.

A BRIEF GUIDE TO TOURETTE'S SYNDROME

Following his emotional set at Worthy Farm in June 2023 (pictured) the singer took time off to focus on his mental health and to 'adjust to the impact' of his Tourette's diagnosis

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by a combination of involuntary noises and movements called tics. It usually starts during childhood and continues into adulthood. Tics can be either vocal or physical, and in many cases, Tourette's syndrome runs in families.

Here are some key facts about the condition:

  • What causes Tourette's syndrome? The exact cause is still unknown, but research suggests it may be related to genetic mutations or brain chemistry imbalances.
  • How common is Tourette's syndrome? It affects around 1 in 100 people worldwide, although some studies suggest this number may be higher due to underreporting.
  • What are the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome? Tics can range from mild to severe and may include vocal tics (e.g., repetitive sounds or words) or physical tics (e.g., involuntary movements or gestures).
  • Can Tourette's syndrome be treated? While there is no cure, treatment can help manage symptoms. This may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

If you're struggling with Tourette's syndrome or any other mental health issue, remember that you're not alone. There are resources available to support you, including online therapy platforms like BetterHelp and the NHS's dedicated services for mental health support.

HELP IS JUST A CALL AWAY

If you've been affected by anything in this article, please don't hesitate to reach out for help:

  • Call 111 or visit your local GP for immediate support
  • Contact BetterHelp online therapy platform for confidential guidance and advice
  • Reach out to the NHS's dedicated mental health services for expert care and support

Remember, you're not alone, and there is help available.