Eric Faulkner, former guitarist and vocalist of the beloved Scottish pop band Bay City Rollers, has made a surprising and emotional return to public attention after years of silence—one that left fans wondering about his fate.
In 2015, Faulkner was struck by a life-threatening case of viral encephalitis, a serious inflammation of the brain. The illness left him hospitalized for months and battling long-term neurological symptoms that severely impacted his ability to perform and even carry out day-to-day tasks.
For many fans, it felt like Eric had vanished. No concerts. No public statements. No music. But behind the scenes, he was fighting for his life—and slowly, quietly, regaining his strength.
Now, in 2025, Faulkner has not only recovered significantly, but he’s also returned to writing music and has thrown his support behind Encephalitis International, an organization that provides support to people affected by the condition that nearly claimed his life. Eric has actively helped raise funds and awareness, sharing his own story of survival and resilience.
In a rare interview earlier this year, Faulkner revealed that it was music and the connection with fans that helped pull him through the darkest times. “There were moments when I didn’t know if I’d play again,” he said. “But I never let go of the songs in my head.”
Even more remarkably, Eric has started recording acoustic versions of new material, slowly reintroducing his sound to long-time fans who feared they’d never hear from him again. Early snippets have surfaced at small charity gigs across the UK, where his performances have been met with emotional standing ovations.
Beyond music, Faulkner is using his voice to advocate for greater research funding and post-recovery support for brain injury survivors. “Not everyone gets the care I did,” he emphasized, “and that needs to change.”
Faulkner’s unexpected return isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s a beacon of hope for others battling unseen health struggles. And for Bay City Rollers fans, it’s a moment of reconnection with a voice they thought they had lost forever.