(Image credit: Mick Hutson/Redferns)
SOURCE: www.metalwani.com
Candice Night, the wife of legendary Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, recently opened up in an interview with Dawn Osborne of TotalRock about her husband’s health. The couple, married for 17 years, has been facing significant medical challenges, with Ritchie’s heart health being a major concern.
During the interview, Candice was asked about the potential for their band, Blackmore’s Night, to tour Europe in the near future. She revealed that Ritchie has been advised against flying due to his health.
“As for traveling at the moment, Ritchie’s cardiologist has advised him not to fly,” Candice shared. “He had a heart attack about a year and a half ago and now has six stents in place.”
Candice also reflected on Ritchie’s upcoming milestone birthday. “I can’t believe he’ll be 80 on April 14th, it’s hard to fathom. He doesn’t look or act his age, but like everyone, medical issues eventually catch up with you. We’ve got to prioritize his health and happiness,” she explained.
Ritchie’s health has been further complicated by gout, arthritis, and ongoing back problems. “It’s becoming more difficult for him. It’s a challenge,” Candice said.
Despite these struggles, Candice remains optimistic, noting that she’s seen people younger than Ritchie performing on stage despite facing similar or worse health conditions. “I think Ritchie doesn’t want people to see him in such a vulnerable state. From a fan’s point of view, though, I think they’d just be grateful to be in the same room as him, listening to whatever music he plays,” she said with a laugh.