A rock legend is opening up about a cancer battle and stroke that nearly ended his career. Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain is revisiting his past frightening health battles.
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The rock legend offers fans a personal look at his private medical struggles in his new autobiography, Hello Boys And Girls!.
McBrain recently shared a video unboxing the book, which explores his recovery from a potentially career-ending stroke and his earlier battle with throat cancer. The drummer was diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer in 2020 after undergoing an endoscopy at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami.
Doctors discovered cancer affecting part of his vocal cords. Fortunately, surgeons successfully removed the cancer the following week. McBrain subsequently underwent regular examinations to monitor for recurrence. He was reported to be in remission in 2022.
"It's been a real honor to write my very own autobiography and have the chance to walk down memory lane, revisiting all the experiences that have made me who I am and brought me to where I am today. And I'm thrilled and delighted to be taking those stories on the road and share them all with you. I feel truly blessed to be able to say 'Hello Boys And Girls!' to you all in person later this year. We're going to have a lot of fun together, so come and join me for a great night out. I've got a LOT of stories I want to tell you all!" he said of the book.
Rock Legend Talks Cancer Battle
Another devastating health setback followed in January 2023. While recovering at his Florida home, McBrain suffered a stroke that caused paralysis along the right side of his body. "It left me paralyzed on my right side from my shoulder on down," he revealed in an August 2023 statement.
The musician admitted that he initially feared his career with Iron Maiden was finished. After 10 weeks of intensive rehabilitation, McBrain estimated that he had recovered approximately 70% of his previous physical abilities. Although he eventually returned to performing, the stroke permanently changed how he approached drumming.
McBrain explained that he struggled with finger dexterity and speed, forcing him to modify certain drum fills during performances.
By October 2023, he estimated his strength had improved to approximately 85% to 90%, although he continued experiencing physical limitations. Those challenges ultimately contributed to his decision to retire from touring with Iron Maiden in December 2024.
"I had my health issues, which was one of the primary reasons that I decided to hang it up with the guys," McBrain explained during a July 2025 interview with Eddie Trunk.
