Sir Brian May, the celebrated guitarist from Queen, delivered a stunning surprise at Coachella on Friday night, joining singer-songwriter Benson Boone for a memorable performance.
The 77-year-old musical icon’s appearance came just days after his wife, Anita Dobson, disclosed that he was returning to full health following a stroke experienced in August of last year. Dobson revealed that the incident left May temporarily unable to control one arm.
During Boone’s set, the stage transformed into a spectacle as May dramatically emerged from below, enveloped in smoke, and launched into the legendary guitar solo from “Bohemian Rhapsody.” He remained onstage for Boone’s final song, contributing his skills to the artist’s 2024 breakthrough hit, “Beautiful Things.”
The performance was a visual treat as well; Boone channeled Freddie Mercury’s iconic style, donning an ermine-fur cloak reminiscent of Queen’s farewell tour in 1986. The dynamic duo brought energy to the stage, with May crossing the stage and Boone even leaping over him during the powerful rendition of Queen’s classic track.
May’s return to the stage marks a significant milestone following his announcement last September about experiencing a minor stroke. He initially shared details on Instagram, stating, “All of a sudden, out of the blue, I didn’t have any control over this arm, so it was a little scary.”
He elaborated in an interview with Premier Guitar magazine that his recovery has been remarkable, noting, “After only a few days, it’s amazing what you can get back. By sheer willpower, you just start retraining your muscles.” He estimates he has regained approximately 95% of his abilities—a result he considers satisfactory.
Anita Dobson recently confirmed her husband’s full recovery, stating in an interview: “Thank you both for asking. I’m very happy to say he’s very well now. Back to his old self.”
- The couple have been together for nearly four decades, first meeting in 1986 and marrying in November 2000.
- Dobson has previously discussed the challenges of May’s recovery, which was further complicated when both experienced illness over Christmas.
“Brian is stable now,” Dobson told *The Sun*. “Brian has never been happier since we moved.”
