The 2019 Heart Procedure and Swift Recovery
In March 2019, The Rolling Stones were forced to postpone their North American 'No Filter' tour, announcing that frontman Mick Jagger required medical treatment. Speculation swirled, but it was soon revealed that Jagger needed a heart valve replacement. In April 2019, at the age of 75, he underwent a successful Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure.
A TAVR is a minimally invasive surgery that allows doctors to replace a failing aortic valve. Instead of open-heart surgery, which involves opening the chest, doctors insert a new valve using a catheter threaded through an artery, typically in the groin. For Jagger, who reportedly had aortic stenosis—a narrowing of the heart's aortic valve—this less-invasive approach offered a quicker recovery.
His recovery was a marvel for many. Just weeks after the procedure, Jagger was back in a rehearsal studio, famously posting a video of himself performing his signature dance moves. He returned to the stage with the band in June 2019, kicking off the rescheduled tour to rave reviews and demonstrating his full recovery.
A Lifelong Commitment to Fitness and Longevity
Jagger's impressive recovery and sustained stamina are no accident. The legendary performer has followed a strict and disciplined lifestyle for decades, particularly since the age of 58. His routine includes a balanced diet, frequent exercise, and avoiding the excesses often associated with rock and roll. According to reports, he credits his vitality to these healthy habits.
Jagger's Health-Focused Regimen
- Regular Exercise: A consistent fitness routine, including running, cycling, and kickboxing, helps maintain his cardiovascular health and stage stamina.
- Mind-Body Balance: Incorporates yoga and pilates to enhance flexibility and reduce stress.
- Nutrient-Rich Diet: Follows a healthy diet that emphasizes lean proteins and vegetables, reportedly including vegetarian foods.
- Professional Guidance: Works with personal trainers and health professionals to tailor his program to his aging body, focusing on preventing injuries and managing his condition.
- Moderation: Avoids excessive partying and limits alcohol consumption, indulging only occasionally.
The Resumption of Touring and Recent Health Status
Following his 2019 heart procedure, Jagger continued to perform extensively. The band's activities were briefly interrupted again in June 2022 when Jagger tested positive for COVID-19, forcing the postponement of two European shows. However, he recovered quickly and was back on stage within weeks, resuming the tour.
In 2024, The Rolling Stones proved their enduring appeal by embarking on the North American 'Hackney Diamonds' tour, named after their acclaimed album. Jagger, along with fellow bandmates Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, performed for audiences across 16 cities. His high-energy performances showed no signs of slowing down, much to the delight of fans and critics.
Comparing TAVR and Open-Heart Surgery
The TAVR procedure was a game-changer for Jagger and many other patients, offering a much faster recovery time. Here is a comparison of the key aspects:
| Feature | TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) | Open-Heart Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive; uses a catheter through an artery, often in the groin. | Requires a major incision in the chest (sternotomy). |
| Recovery Time | Typically a few days in the hospital, with return to normal activity in weeks. | Involves several days in intensive care and weeks or months for full recovery. |
| Heart Operation | The heart keeps beating during the procedure. | The heart is stopped, and the patient is put on a heart-lung machine. |
| Patient Suitability | Originally for high-risk patients, now also for those at low risk. | Traditional standard for many years, especially in younger or lower-risk patients. |
The Longevity of a Rock Legend
Despite his age, Mick Jagger's health remains a testament to modern medicine and a dedicated healthy lifestyle. His experiences with heart disease and COVID-19 serve as powerful public examples of managing health conditions while maintaining a demanding career. It's a journey that reassures fans and highlights the importance of regular health check-ups, especially as one gets older.
As of late 2025, Mick Jagger is in good health and continues to be an active presence in music. The reports of "poor health" in July 2025 circulated on social media platforms like Facebook were misleading and contradicted by reliable news sources that covered his 82nd birthday and the successful 2024 tour. His continued performances showcase not only his rock-and-roll spirit but also his remarkable resilience.
For more information on the TAVR procedure, you can visit the American Heart Association website.
Conclusion
In summary, the story of Mick Jagger's health is one of remarkable recovery and sustained vitality. From his successful, minimally-invasive heart surgery in 2019 to his swift return to the stage after a COVID-19 diagnosis in 2022, he has consistently bounced back stronger. Supported by a rigorous fitness and diet regimen, he continues to defy age, as evidenced by The Rolling Stones' recent tour. While viral social media rumors occasionally cause concern, the facts point to a rock icon who remains in robust health, ready to continue his legendary career for years to come.
