Queen guitarist Brian May has revealed new details of a health scare that left him temporarily unable to control his left arm following a minor stroke in September 2024.
The rock legend experienced a frightening moment when he briefly feared he might never play the guitar again after losing control of his arm.
The Red Special guitarist has now opened up about the incident in a new interview with Guitarist magazine, discussing his recovery journey.
May described the alarming moment and said: “When I suddenly couldn’t control this left arm, it was quite scary. I had no idea what was going on.”
He immediately contacted his doctor, who recognised the severity of the situation.
“I phoned my doctor and she said, ‘Okay, I think you’re having a minor stroke. Dial 999, get in the ambulance and I’ll see you there’.” May recalled.
The guitarist was swiftly taken to Frimley Hospital for treatment and despite the concerning situation, May remained optimistic throughout the ordeal.
“Even at the worst time, although I couldn’t control where the arm was, I could control my fingers,” he continued to Guitarist magazine.
This crucial detail gave him confidence about his future playing abilities, as he reflected: “I thought, ‘I’m probably not really in danger’.”
The guitarist has maintained a positive outlook on his recovery and added: “I’m all right now. I’m just taking it slow.”
The guitarist said he didn’t know what was happening
PA
In a video statement released shortly after the incident last September, May reassured his fans about his recovery.
“I’m here to bring you some good news: the good news is that I can play guitar after the events of the last few days,” he said via an Instagram post.
The musician acknowledged the seriousness of the situation in his update and expressed: “All of a sudden out of the blue I didn’t have any control of this arm, so it’s a little scary.I had the most fantastic care and attention from Frimley Hospital.”
The Queen guitarist’s recovery continues to progress positively since his health scare.
While the incident initially raised concerns among fans, May has consistently provided reassuring updates about his condition.
His ability to maintain finger control throughout the episode proved crucial to his recovery prospects.
Brian was seen alongside his wife Anita shortly after his stroke
PA
Now focusing on a measured approach to his rehabilitation, May’s determination and positive attitude have helped him navigate this challenging period.
The guitarist continues to demonstrate the resilience that has marked his decades-long career.
