Singer and retired competitive swimmer Cody Simpson has revealed to fans that he has been secretly battling a health issue, which is preventing him from singing.
Cody recently returned to performing; however, it appears this new update will set those plans back for a while.
“I originally thought I could keep this private, but it’s come time I share what I’ve been going through,” he wrote on Instagram. “Just over a month ago, we discovered a serious haemorrhage on one of my vocal cords.”
Apparently, the bleeding was the result of Cody’s “overzealousness” while rehearsing. He was unknowingly battling a sinus infection. His competitive nature clearly was a factor as he assumed he was just tired and powered through what he assumed was just fatigue until he couldn’t sing anymore.
Now, it looks like he could be stuck not singing for a while.
“I’ve now been on and off vocal rest for weeks, cancelling TV and radio performances for “Baby Blue” in the process,” he continued. Additionally, he shared that this health update could prevent him from finishing his album and upcoming singles.
“I’ve just been prescribed another two weeks of silence in hopes of avoiding a surgery which demands a much longer recovery process.”
However, he’s using the time to focus on songwriting, while remaining mute, and playing what will be his vocal melodies on his guitar.
Although it’s a sad update, Cody appears to be positive about his future recovery.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” he says. “I’d like to bring you on the journey. I’ve been extremely up and down but am now reframing this as a realignment for the long-term good.”
Best attitude to have in this situation.
He gave fans an update sharing a message to his social media account:
“Don’t know how long this recovery journey is going to be yet or whether surgery will go ahead, but it’s looking likely.”
He also shared a look at his “Silent mode sessions”, where he builds song structure and melodies with his collaborators.
When did Cody Simpson retire?
Cody Simpson returned to his music career after retiring from competitive swimming. He retired in June 2024 after he didn’t qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Cody and a fellow retired competitive swimmer, Emma McKeon, were in a relationship from 2022 until 2026. He confirmed the split on an episode of the We Need To Talk with Paul C Brunson podcast.
“[The relationship] ended up being a really beautiful thing for us to do together — moving in together and living that lifestyle together,” Cody said.
“Having Emma in my life to support me through my goals and vice versa — we were able to be that for each other and lift each other up. She is a special person,” he added.
Emma is the most decorated Australian in Olympic history. They met when Cody joined the Australian Swim Team after he qualified for the Commonwealth Games.
Cody was also the subject of one of the finalists for the 2026 Archibald Prize.
