Bill Anderson Suffers ‘Freak Accident’ Fall at Home

Bill Anderson says he’s on the mend after suffering a “freak accident” at home.

The 87-year-old country legend canceled three planned appearances over the weekend, including a Saturday night performance at the Grand Ole Opry.

In a letter posted to his website on Monday (Aug. 18), Anderson explained the circumstances that forced him to cancel his plans.

“It was a freak accident where I twisted or tore some ligaments or muscles or something in the back of my left leg trying to climb into bed,” the singer wrote, “and I fell to the floor unable to walk.”

“I was in excruciating pain,” he adds.

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In addition to an Opry show, Anderson had to cancel a planned songwriting session with fellow country great T. Graham Brown, as well as an appearance at the State Fair.

“If you know me, you know how much it bothers me to go back on any commitment I have made,” he writes in his letter.

The good news is that, the day after his final canceled commitment, Anderson was able to assure fans that he’s on the mend.

“I appreciate your concern, but I’m here to let you know I’m fine,” he says.

“Thanks to a bunch of ice packs and pain pills I’m feeling much better today, and hopefully this will all be behind me shortly,” the singer writes. “Thanks for your thoughts and prayers and most of all for caring.”

Known as “Whisperin’ Bill” for his soft-spoken singing voice, Anderson has found success in mainstream country music since the late 1950s.

Read More: Bill Anderson Hits a Major Grand Ole Opry Milestone

In July, the singer marked a major milestone when he became the longest-serving member of the Grand Ole Opry.

He was inducted on July 15, 1961, meaning that he’s been a member of the hallowed country music stage for an impressive 64 years.