Steve Hackett has reignited speculation about a possible Genesis reunion. The legendary guitarist has declared his willingness to rejoin his former bandmates despite the band’s long hiatus. Hackett expressed his openness to the prospect, stating that he would embrace any opportunity to reunite with the classic lineup. “I’ve always said that if they wanted me to reform, I would do it. I would even play harmonica or do a walk on,” he explained, highlighting his flexibility and enthusiasm for such a collaboration.
“I’ve re-recorded some of [Genesis’] stuff. And I sometimes do it with orchestras,” Hackett continued. “So there’s some sort of sense of development there. But it means that I get a chance to choose what I think is the best of it. And I like to think that it’s agenda free.”
“When they were a three piece, would they consider that to be the classic period where most of the hits were hit singles? But then would it be the stuff that turned on musicians, the earlier stuff, the transition?” he added.
The guitarist’s optimistic stance contrasts sharply with the ongoing health challenges facing the band’s frontman, Phil Collins. Collins has disclosed the extent of his physical struggles. He requires round-the-clock medical support to manage his condition. “I have a 24-hour live-in nurse to make sure I take my medication as I should do. I’ve had challenges with my knee. I had everything that could go wrong with me, did go wrong with me,” Collins stated, painting a picture of significant health complications that have fundamentally altered his ability to perform.
Hackett has demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving the band’s legacy through his solo work. He has re-recorded portions of Genesis’ catalog and frequently performs the music with orchestral arrangements. This approach allows him to curate what he considers the finest interpretations of the band’s work. His ongoing engagement with Genesis material underscores his continued connection to the band’s artistic vision, even as he pursues his independent career.
While Hackett has consistently maintained that he would accept an invitation to reunite, he has also cautioned that a live reunion remains unlikely given the circumstances. The band has not returned to the road as a complete unit in recent years. The prospect of doing so appears increasingly remote. Phil Collins’ retirement from touring represents a fundamental obstacle to any full-scale reunion. The singer’s health challenges make sustained live performances unfeasible.
Hackett has maintained an active touring schedule throughout 2024, 2025, and into 2026, performing Genesis material alongside his solo work. His world tour encompasses performances across North America, South America, and Europe, bringing the band’s catalog to audiences worldwide. A partial reunion of sorts occurred when Hackett joined former bandmates Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford at a special event celebrating the 50th anniversary of “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.” Collins’ absence due to his ongoing recovery underscored the challenges facing any full reunion.
The reality of a complete Genesis reunion hinges on factors beyond Hackett’s control. While the guitarist’s willingness is not in question, Collins’ health situation presents an insurmountable challenge to any realistic collaboration involving the classic lineup. Even a studio project with Collins would carry significant complications given his medical circumstances. For now, Hackett’s solo tours and his continued reinterpretation of Genesis material through orchestral arrangements represent the most viable way for fans to experience the band’s music performed by its original architects.
