Morten Harket, the legendary voice behind A-ha’s iconic hit Take On Me, has revealed he is living with Parkinson’s disease. The 65-year-old frontman shared the heartbreaking news in a statement posted on the band’s website, describing his condition as a long, private battle that has now become public.
In a deeply personal message, the band said Morten has been “battling his own body” in recent years, and that this isn’t the kind of news anyone wants to announce—but it’s time. Morten himself confirmed the diagnosis and said he has no problem accepting it. His focus now is on managing the illness and avoiding physical and mental decline.
“I’m doing what I can to stop my system from slipping into deterioration,” he said. “It’s tough balancing the medication with the side effects. Every little thing, from social interactions to everyday movements, takes more effort now.”
The singer reflected on his father’s wise words—his 94-year-old dad’s attitude toward ageing helped Morten find acceptance. Still, he admitted he no longer feels like singing, which for him is a significant emotional signal.
In a moving message to fans, Morten said, “Don’t worry about me. Find out who you want to be. Be good stewards of the Earth and address the real problems of our world. Know that I am being cared for.”
