Robbie Williams has disclosed his unexpected diagnosis of scurvy, calling it a “17th-century pirate disease.” His revelation came during an interview with The Mirror, where the former Take That singer shared that he developed the condition after using an appetite suppressant. Williams explained, “I’d stopped eating and I wasn’t getting nutrients,” which led to the diagnosis.
According to the NHS, scurvy results from a prolonged deficiency of vitamin C in one’s diet, presenting symptoms such as persistent fatigue, weakness, irritability, and physical discomfort, including easily bruised skin and joint or muscle pain. Though scurvy is uncommon today, it is known to be easily treatable. Despite modern perceptions, Williams underscored the historical context by describing it as a relic of the pirate era, revealing how he struggled to heed concerns from others about his physical appearance.
“With body dysmorphia, when people say they’re worried about how you’re looking, you’re like: ‘I’ve achieved it,’” Williams confessed. He further elaborated, “When people say, ‘We’re worried you’re too thin,’ that goes into my head as ‘Jackpot. I’ve reached the promised land.’” Such candid insights into his mindset highlight the challenges linked with body image issues and societal expectations, adding depth to the discussion around his diagnosis.
Williams, a talented and versatile performer, was recently involved in discussions about his anticipated biopic, “Better Man,” directed by Michael Gracey. Together, they considered an imaginative portrayal where a monkey embodies Williams throughout the film. This playful concept stemmed from a conversation where Gracey suggested that a monkey might best represent Williams’ persona after initially proposing he was a lion.
Amid his health challenges, Williams is also preparing for his tour, coinciding with the much-anticipated Oasis reunion tour, which he referred to as “nostalgia on steroids.” Complementing his admiration, Williams lauded Liam Gallagher’s “peerless” voice, acknowledging him as a voice of a generation and expressing hope that the upcoming tour would hold special significance for fans in Manchester and across Britain.
In parallel anecdotes, Williams mentioned that recording a cover of Blur’s “Parklife” with Danny Dyer was a creative endeavor he humorously admitted “made no sense on paper.” Despite the complexities and dynamics in his career, Williams continues to captivate audiences with his unwavering charisma and candid narratives. His journey, marked by personal revelations and professional aspirations, reflects both the triumphs and tribulations faced by renowned figures in the public eye.
