Lead singer of A-ha, Morten Harket, discloses his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease

Morten Harket, the iconic frontman of the legendary Eighties synth-pop band A-ha, recently shared the news of his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. At 65 years old, Harket bravely announced his health condition through an article by Jan Omdahl, the band’s biographer, on their official website. The singer opened up about his journey, revealing that he has undergone multiple brain surgeries at the Mayo Clinic in the United States in the past year. These surgeries involved the implantation of electrodes in his brain to help manage the symptoms associated with the disease.

Despite his uncertain future in terms of performing, Harket remains positive, expressing his acceptance of the diagnosis and adopting his father’s resilient mindset towards aging gracefully. He admitted that he is unsure whether he will be able to continue singing, but remains optimistic. The physical symptoms are not yet overt, and he expressed that he can still engage in everyday activities such as driving. Harket’s mature perspective on his condition and his determination to navigate the challenges ahead emphasize his strength and resilience.

Omdahl, in his article, beautifully encapsulates the multifaceted persona of Morten Harket, describing him not just as a world-renowned singer but also as a father, grandfather, and influential figure in the music industry. Harket’s battle with Parkinson’s disease has been a private struggle known only to a select few close to him until now. The singer expressed a mix of emotions, from the desire for privacy to the need to share his story with the world.

A-ha, the band that catapulted Harket to fame, was founded in 1982 by him and his friends Paul Waaktaar-Savoy and Magne Furuholmen. Their debut album in 1985, “Hunting High and Low,” produced smash hits like “Take On Me” and “The Sun Always Shines on TV.” The success of these songs, coupled with the innovative pencil sketch animation video for “Take On Me,” propelled A-ha to international stardom. Despite their meteoric rise to fame, Harket’s recent health revelation sheds light on the personal battles he has faced behind the scenes.

Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, affects the brain’s nervous system and gives rise to symptoms like tremors. While there is no cure for the condition, treatments involving medication and surgery can help manage the symptoms. Harket’s journey with Parkinson’s disease underscores the importance of raising awareness and promoting understanding of this challenging condition.

As Morten Harket embarks on this new chapter in his life, his openness about his health serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. The strength and courage he exhibits in sharing his story demonstrate his resilience in the face of adversity. While the future may hold uncertainties for Harket, his legacy as a music icon and his unwavering spirit will continue to resonate with fans worldwide.