Earth Wind and Fire drummer John Paris in induced coma after cardiac incident

Earth Wind and Fire drummer John Paris, 58, remains in ICU after a cardiac incident, waking from a second induced coma and needing two major surgeries.

Brit Brief 21/08/2026 05:38

Earth Wind and Fire drummer John Paris in induced coma after cardiac incident — Earth Wind and Fire drummer in induced coma after cardiac incident

Earth Wind and Fire drummer John Paris, 58, remains in intensive care after a cardiac incident earlier this month, according to a major health update from his team. The Standing for John Paris page revealed that Paris has woken from a medically induced coma for the second time, with his blood pressure remaining stable, allowing doctors to continue evaluating his condition.

Recovery and surgeries

The statement outlined that Paris will need to undergo "two major surgeries" as part of his treatment. He will remain in the ICU longer than initially hoped while his medical team prepares him for the next phase of care.

Paris's wife Kathy, with whom he shares daughter Kyla, issued a statement expressing gratitude for the support. She said: "This journey is definitely a marathon, but JP is fighting every single day and our hope is strong. Please keep the prayers, love, and light coming for John, Kathy, Kyla, and the entire family."

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Family and fan support

Kathy added: "John has already overcome obstacles that once seemed impossible, and while there is still a long road ahead, each step forward gives everyone around him renewed hope. We know so many of you have been faithfully praying, sending messages of encouragement, and thinking about John every day."

She noted that fans' "love and support continue to lift John, Kathy, Kyla, and the entire family during this journey." The post concluded: "We will share updates as we are able and when there is meaningful news to report."

GoFundMe fundraiser

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with Paris's recovery, currently reaching 91% of its $90,000 (£65,967) goal. The fundraiser noted that with John's recovery requiring a longer ICU stay and additional surgeries, Kathy will be by his side longer than anticipated, and continued generosity helps ease unexpected burdens so she can focus on being there for him.

Paris joined Earth, Wind & Fire as drummer in 2001. He performed on the band's studio albums The Promise (2003), Illumination (2005), Now, Then & Forever (2013) and Holiday (2014).