Roger Daltrey, iconic frontman of The Who, has revealed that he is gradually losing his hearing and vision following his 81st birthday on March 1. In a poignant twist of fate, Daltrey now faces the same afflictions as Tommy—the deaf, blind, and mute protagonist of The Who’s legendary 1969 rock opera.

“The joys of getting old mean you go deaf. I also now have got the joy of going blind,” Daltrey told the crowd at London’s Royal Albert Hall at a concert per Sky News.

“Fortunately, I still have my voice,” he said, “because then I’ll have a full Tommy.”

Roger Daltrey has spoken candidly about aging and mortality in recent interviews, including one with The Times in January 2024. He expressed a sense of peace with the idea of death, saying that his dreams have been fulfilled and his family is well cared for. Reflecting on the reality of growing older, Daltrey acknowledged that life isn’t eternal and suggested that people his age often feel like they’re simply taking up space. He also likened himself to a worn-out instrument, no longer in need of new guitar strings.

Roger Daltrey (born March 1, 1944) is an English singer, songwriter, and actor best known as the lead vocalist and co-founder of the legendary rock band The Who. Renowned for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence.

He was born in Hammersmith, London, Daltrey attended Acton County Grammar School, where he met future bandmates Pete Townshend and John Entwistle. Originally forming a skiffle band, the group evolved into The Who in 1964 with the addition of drummer Keith Moon. The band quickly rose to fame with hits like “My Generation,” “Substitute,” and “I Can’t Explain,” becoming icons of British rock. Daltrey’s raw vocal energy was a key element of The Who’s success, particularly in their ambitious rock operas Tommy (1969) and Quadrophenia (1973). His portrayal of the titular character in Tommy, both on the album and in the 1975 film adaptation, solidified his place as a cultural figure. Outside The Who, he launched a solo career in the 1970s and also pursued acting, appearing in films such as McVicar and various television roles.