Morten Harket, the lead singer of the iconic Norwegian band A-ha, revealed on June 4, 2025, that he has Parkinson’s disease. The 65-year-old, known for the 1980s hit “Take On Me,” shared the news on the band’s website, sparking an outpouring of support from fans across Europe and the UK.
Harket’s diagnosis raises questions about his future performances, but his courage and positive outlook have inspired many. This news has touched music lovers, especially those aged 18–50, who grew up with A-ha’s timeless songs.
A Shocking Diagnosis
Harket announced his condition in a heartfelt statement, explaining that he has been privately battling Parkinson’s, a disease that affects the brain’s nervous system, causing tremors and movement issues. He underwent deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery in June 2024, where doctors implanted electrodes in his brain to help manage symptoms.
The procedure, arranged through connections at the Mayo Clinic in the US, improved his condition significantly, but Parkinson’s has no cure. Harket admitted the disease has affected his voice, making singing difficult.
“I’m doing my best to keep my system from declining,” he said, highlighting the challenge of balancing medication and its side effects.
In a candid interview with journalist Jan Ohmdal, Harket shared that only close friends and family knew about his illness until now. He chose to go public to connect with fans and raise awareness.
“I don’t feel like singing right now, but I’m focusing on what works,” he said, echoing his 94-year-old father’s practical approach to health challenges. Fans have praised his bravery, with many sharing emotional tributes online.
A-ha’s Legacy and Harket’s Journey
Formed in 1982 by Harket, Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, and Magne Furuholmen, A-ha soared to fame with their 1985 debut album *Hunting High and Low*. Hits like “Take On Me” and “The Sun Always Shines on TV” made them global stars, with their synth-pop sound defining the 1980s.
The band also contributed “The Living Daylights” to the James Bond film soundtrack, cementing their cultural impact. A-ha’s music continues to resonate with fans across Europe and the UK, from young listeners discovering their classics to older fans who cherish their legacy.
Harket, a father of five and a grandfather, has always been a private figure despite his fame. His diagnosis comes as a shock to fans who admire his soaring vocals and charismatic stage presence.
On X, @BraxM shared Harket’s inspiring words: “Don’t worry about me. Find out who you want to be… and care for the environment while it’s still possible”.
This message reflects his strength and focus on living meaningfully despite his health struggles.
Impact on A-ha’s Future
Harket’s diagnosis raises uncertainty about A-ha’s future performances. The band, which has toured regularly and released music as recently as 2022, may face challenges with Harket’s vocal limitations.
However, his bandmates have expressed support, and Sony Music confirmed the news, emphasizing Harket’s ongoing treatment. Fans are hopeful that medical advancements, like the DBS procedure, will allow him to continue creating music, even if live shows become less frequent.
An X post by @mitchlafon noted, “Morten Harket, lead singer of A-ha, has shared that he has Parkinson’s disease. The condition has begun to affect his voice”.
The music community has rallied around Harket, with tributes pouring in. @FanTheSting wrote on X, “So sad to hear Morten Harket has been battling Parkinson’s disease. A-ha are such a great band… Morten is facing it like a pro”.
These messages highlight the deep connection fans feel with Harket and A-ha’s music.
Raising Awareness and Moving Forward
Harket’s openness about Parkinson’s has sparked conversations about the disease, which affects millions worldwide. Symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and balance issues can worsen over time, but treatments like DBS and medication can improve quality of life.
Harket’s story encourages others to seek early diagnosis and explore treatment options. In the UK and Europe, where A-ha has a massive following, fans are sharing resources about Parkinson’s support, inspired by Harket’s resilience.
For young music fans and older listeners alike, Harket’s diagnosis is a reminder of the fragility of health, even for beloved stars. His positive attitude, urging fans to “be good servants of nature,” resonates deeply, especially amid growing environmental concerns.
As Harket navigates this new chapter, his legacy with A-ha and his courage in facing Parkinson’s continue to inspire.