What We Know About Singing Legend Peabo Bryson’s Latest Health Scare

Fans of singing legend Peabo Bryson are in shock after learning about a recent health scare. And sadly, the news is pretty unfortunate to hear.

If that name sounds familiar, and if you grew up watching classic Disney movies like “Beauty and the Beast” or “Aladdin,” you’ve probably heard Bryson—a.k.a. the “King of Ballads”—lending his smooth vocals to songs like “A Whole New World.” Bryson was also known for other soulful hits throughout the 80s and 90s, including “Tonight I Celebrate My Love,” “Can You Stop the Rain” and “If You’re Ever In My Arms Again.”

The singer suffered a stroke over the weekend and is currently receiving medical care to aid in his recovery. The news was first shared by his personal representative and captured by CBS News.

“Two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson — the voice behind the Oscar-winning Disney songs ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘A Whole New World’ — has suffered a stroke and is currently under medical care,” the statement read. “At this time, the family requests privacy as they navigate this deeply personal moment together. The thoughts, prayers and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated.”

Additional details surrounding what caused his stroke are unknown at this time, but this sadly isn’t the first time the “Love Always Finds a Way” singer has experienced a similar health issue. In 2019, he suffered a heart attack that left him hospitalized. Thanks to the speedy efforts of both his wife, Tanya, and first responders (who guided her into performing CPR on him to help keep him stable), he was listed as in stable condition, awake and responsive, not too long after being admitted into a local area hospital in Georgia.

Here’s hoping that this stroke doesn’t keep him down for too long this time around, The Root sends our thoughts and prayers to Bryson and his family at this time.