During her Las Vegas residency on Friday, October 25, 36-year-old singer Adele shared with fans that she’s been suffering from an ear infection that has temporarily left her “a bit deaf.” A video shared on X (formerly Twitter) shows Adele explaining her recent hearing issues while on stage at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.
“I actually have an ear infection, which is pretty grim. I’ve never had one before,” she said, describing the pain as “worse than childbirth.”
The infection, caused by a rare waterborne bacteria, required specific antibiotics after an initial round of treatment proved ineffective. “I am no longer in pain, which is great,” she assured fans, though some symptoms still linger. Nevertheless, she remained committed to her show: “There was no way I was missing the f—— show.”
According to Mayo Clinic, ear infections can cause temporary hearing loss, which generally improves as the infection subsides, though, in rare cases, permanent hearing issues can occur if there is damage to the eardrum or middle ear structures.
Adele’s residency, Weekends with Adele, began in November 2022 and will run until November 23, following a break she took earlier this year to rest her voice after recurring illnesses. She recently revealed plans to step away from performing after her Vegas shows to focus on recovery: “I have 10 shows to do, but after that, I will not see you for an incredibly long time, and I will hold you dear in my heart,” she announced during her Munich residency in September.
