Musician Donald Glover Reveals Stroke During Tour

LOS ANGELES, California — Grammy-winning musician Donald Glover, known as Childish Gambino, revealed he suffered a stroke last year that led to the cancellation of his 2024 New World Tour. Glover made the announcement during a performance at the Camp Flog Gnaw festival on November 22, 2025.

At 42 years old, Glover is part of a rising trend of younger adults experiencing strokes, which is typically more common in those over 65. A neurologist, Dr. Mima Akinsanya from MedStar Georgetown, explained that increased vascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity are contributing to this trend among young adults.

Glover shared that while performing in Louisiana last year, he felt severe pain in his head and had trouble seeing. After a show in Houston, he sought medical help, where doctors confirmed he had a stroke. “The first thing I thought was like, ‘I’m letting everybody down,’” he said during the festival.

In addition to the stroke, Glover disclosed that doctors later found a hole in his heart, leading to two surgeries to address his health issues. He urged the audience to live fully, saying, “They say everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you have one.”

Dr. Akinsanya emphasized the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms, such as weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking. She encouraged anyone experiencing such symptoms to seek immediate medical care.

As more young adults face similar health issues, experts advise maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to lower the risk of stroke. Glover’s experience highlights the need for awareness and preventive measures among younger generations.

Reflecting on his past health challenges, Glover expressed gratitude for his life and the support of his fans, emphasizing the importance of taking health seriously.