5 days ago
A-ha's Morten Harket shares emotional statement after Parkinson's diagnosis
Morten Harket, the iconic frontman of 80s band A-ha, has announced that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
The Norwegian band released a statement that read: 'This isn't the sort of news anyone wants to deliver to the world, but here it is: Morten has Parkinson's disease.'
In an interview about the diagnosis on the band's official website that serves as Harket's statement on the matter, the 65-year-old said: 'I've got no problem accepting the diagnosis. With time I've taken to heart my 94-year-old father's attitude to the way the organism gradually surrenders: 'I use whatever works.''
He elaborated: 'Part of me wanted to reveal it. Like I said, acknowledging the diagnosis wasn't a problem for me; it's my need for peace and quiet to work that has been stopping me. I'm trying the best I can to prevent my entire system from going into decline.
'It's a difficult balancing act between taking the medication and managing its side effects. There's so much to weigh up when you're emulating the masterful way the body handles every complex movement, or social matters and invitations, or day-to-day life in general.'
Later, when asked if he can still sing, he responded: 'I don't really know. I don't feel like singing, and for me that's a sign. I'm broadminded in terms of what I think works; I don't expect to be able to achieve full technical control.'
A-ha is a Norwegian synth-pop band formed in Oslo in 1982, consisting of Morten Harket (vocals), Magne Furuholmen (keyboards), and Pål Waaktaar-Savoy (guitar).
They rose to international fame with their 1985 debut album Hunting High and Low, which featured the iconic hit Take On Me, known for its innovative animated music video and Harket's falsetto vocals. More Trending
The song became a global success, reaching number one in multiple countries, and remaining one of the most recognisable songs in the world to this day.
While often associated with the 1980s, a-ha continued to release music and tour into the 21st century, building a loyal fanbase and evolving their sound.
Notable later work include albums like Memorial Beach, Lifelines, and Cast in Steel. Despite several breakups and reunions, a-ha remains an influential and enduring act in pop music history.
Harket has six children, three with his former wife Camilla Malmquist Harket, whom he divorced in 1998, a daughter with former girlfriend Anne Mette Undlien. and another daughter with his current partner Inez Andersson.
This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.
If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
For more stories like this, check our entertainment page.
Follow Entertainment on Twitter and Facebook for the latest celeb and entertainment updates. You can now also get articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.
MORE: Talking Heads fans feel 'gaslit' after rumoured 50th anniversary announcement is finally revealed
MORE: Arnold Schwarzenegger tried to rewrite one of the most famous lines in movie history
MORE: Famous Hollywood couple shattered after learning they can't move to Ireland permanently
