David Johansen Faces Health Crisis; Fundraiser Launched for Care

NEW YORK, New York — David Johansen, the iconic frontman of the New York Dolls, is battling Stage 4 cancer and a brain tumor, highlighting the urgent need for support following a series of health setbacks. The 75-year-old singer has been bedridden after suffering a fall last November that resulted in two broken vertebrae in his back. His family has launched a fundraising campaign to assist with his increasing medical expenses.

On February 10, 2025, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund initiated the fundraising effort, aimed at covering Johansen’s physical therapy, nursing care, and daily living expenses. The campaign is crucial as Johansen’s condition worsened significantly after his fall, which his daughter, Leah Hennessey, described as a pivotal moment in his declining health.

“We’ve been living with my illness for a long time, still having fun, seeing friends and family, carrying on, but this tumble the day after Thanksgiving really brought us to a whole new level of debilitation,” Johansen stated. “This is the worst pain I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. I’ve never been one to ask for help, but this is an emergency. Thank you.”

The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund is a nonprofit organization established in 1994 to assist musicians facing health challenges or financial difficulties. Executive Director Aric Steinberg expressed the organization’s commitment to helping Johansen during this trying time. “His influence on the musical landscape with the New York Dolls is indelible, and his career has touched many people around the world,” Steinberg said. “We anticipate that David’s community will be eager to help.”

In addition to the fundraising campaign, a special T-shirt featuring David Johansen has been created, with proceeds designated for his medical care. Leah Hennessey emphasized the support from the community, stating, “Together we have endured crisis after crisis, but with the support of our community, we hope to carry on laughing and loving our way through this most trying of times.”

Known for his pioneering work with the New York Dolls since the early 1970s, Johansen has also found success as a solo artist and actor. After the Dolls disbanded, he reinvented himself as Buster Poindexter in the 1980s, achieving notoriety with the hit “Hot Hot Hot.” His acting credits include a memorable role in the film Scrooged, where he played the Ghost of Christmas Past, and appearances in the series Oz.

Johansen’s recent health issues have kept him from performing for the past five years, according to his family. Leah detailed the strain their family has endured due to his condition, which had been kept private until now. “To continue his treatment and give him the best chance at a full recovery, David will need full-time assistance,” she explained.

The community’s response to the fundraiser has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the deep admiration fans hold for Johansen and his contributions to music and culture. Donations can be made through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund website, and supporters are encouraged to purchase the special T-shirt, contributing to his medical care.