David Johansen, New York Dolls Co-Founder, Suffering From Cancer

David Johansen — the sole surviving founding member of the New York Dolls and a solo artist who also performs as the lounge singer Buster Poindexter — is suffering from stage four cancer, a brain tumor and a broken back, and is seeking financial assistance through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.

Diagnosed in 2020, Johansen hoped to keep his illness private, but due to the severe financial burden, he shared the news on Monday. In November 2024, he fell and broke his back in two places, which required surgery.  Despite a successful procedure, he remains bedridden and incapacitated; funds will go toward his care.

Assisting in the Johansen family recovery efforts, Sweet Relief has launched the David Johansen Fund (head here for more information). The most immediate needs are full time nursing, physical therapy and funding for day to day vital living expenses. Sweet Relief is also offering a special Johansen T-shirt with all proceeds going to his treatment. 

Since its founding in 1994, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has provided necessary services and financial assistance for career musicians and behind-the-scenes music industry professionals.

Johansen said, “We’ve been living with my illness for a long time, still having fun, seeing friends and family, carrying on, but this tumble the day after Thanksgiving really brought us to a whole new level of debilitation. This is the worst pain I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. I’ve never been one to ask for help, but this is an emergency. Thank you.”

His daughter, Leah Hennessey, says, “for the past five years, David has been unable to work as a performer,” adding that the family’s most immediate needs are full time nursing, physical therapy and funding for day-to-day vital living expenses. “With professional specialized care, we are hopeful that David can regain some mobility and independence.”

Aric Steinberg, Executive Director at Sweet Relief Musicians Fund adds, “Sweet Relief is honored to help David and his family during this difficult time in their lives.  Our Directed Artist Funds can provide a meaningful solution when the community rallies around the recipient, and we anticipate that David’s community will be eager to help here.  His influence on the musical landscape with the New York Dolls is indelible, and his career as an actor and an artist has touched many people around the world.  He’s been knocked down but we’re here to help him back up with the help of his family, friends and wider community of supporters.”

Johansen was recently the subject of Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi’s documentary “Personality Crisis: One Night Only,” which captures an evening of the singer’s songs and storytelling.