Lewis Capaldi admits he experienced severe convulsions backstage before his Glastonbury show.

Lewis Capaldi has shared his remarkable journey, revealing a profound experience at Glastonbury 2023 when he faced a panic attack that left him ‘convulsing’ backstage. His surprise performance in 2025 has been described as a ‘mental win,’ marking a significant turning point in his life.

The 28-year-old Scottish singer touched the hearts of fans last month as he returned to Worthy Farm after taking a pause from music following an emotional episode at the 2023 festival. In a recent appearance on This Past Weekend with Theo Von, Capaldi reflected on the tough moments leading up to that performance, recalling that he had experienced a similar but more intense episode in Chicago just weeks prior. ‘It was backstage, and I couldn’t finish a song. I was having this overwhelming panic attack,’ he shared.

Despite the challenges, he now views his Glastonbury experience as a powerful catalyst for change. ‘When I came off stage, a weight lifted off my shoulders. I felt I could seek help and focus on healing. Strangely, it might have been the best thing that’s ever happened to me,’ he noted, embracing the sense of release it provided.

Capaldi, who has been candid about his Tourette’s diagnosis and struggles with anxiety, acknowledged that his previous inability to set boundaries stemmed from a fear of missing out on opportunities. ‘I felt I had to grasp every amazing moment, or it would slip away,’ he explained, recognizing the emotional and physical strain that led him to cancel tours and seek necessary care.

Since stepping back, Capaldi has made significant, positive changes in his life. He has embraced therapy, learned to manage his Tourette’s better, reduced alcohol consumption, and transitioned to a new medication that has brought him relief. ‘It was scary at first, but it’s truly transformed how I feel. My anxiety levels have dropped, and the stress has lessened,’ he shared. Weekly therapy sessions have played a crucial role in his recovery, allowing him to gain perspective.

His triumphant return to Glastonbury is not just about performing; it symbolizes resilience and healing. ‘I wanted to return and complete what I couldn’t before,’ he said, emphasizing the strength found in that moment.

Ahead of the festival, Capaldi also released a new track titled “Survive,” which chronicles his two-year journey. This heartfelt song resonated deeply with fans, quickly climbing to the top of the charts. His eagerly awaited return to touring has been met with immense enthusiasm, with tickets selling out rapidly—a testament to the support surrounding him as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.

As Capaldi embraces this fresh phase, he reflects, ‘I wouldn’t have made these changes if I hadn’t taken a step back.’ There is a sense of hope and renewal as he moves forward, capturing the hearts of many along the way.

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