Notorious music figure Gary Glitter is reportedly in a deteriorating condition in prison, with inmates speculating about his imminent demise. The 81-year-old, whose actual name is Paul Gadd, is said to be nearly completely deaf, confined to a wheelchair, and unwilling to leave his cell at HMP Channings Wood in Devon, where he is serving time after violating his release conditions in 2023.

Convicted in 2015 for offenses including sexual activity with a minor, attempted rape, and indecent assault, Glitter’s health is reportedly failing rapidly. According to sources, he is barely mobile and suffering from severe physical limitations, making him almost unrecognizable to those who knew him before. Despite being denied parole due to a lack of empathy towards victims, there are beliefs among fellow inmates and prison staff that Glitter may not live to see freedom again.

Recent court proceedings and ongoing legal battles have added to Glitter’s distress, with sources claiming he is perceived as arrogant by other prisoners and generally disliked within the prison environment. His appeal for release was turned down by the Parole Board in 2025 due to his persistent and concerning interest in children, as highlighted in a detailed summary of the case.

The board’s decision emphasized that Glitter continues to exhibit uncontrollable inclinations towards pre-pubescent children and holds beliefs that condone child sexual abuse. Previous rejections of his release requests in 2024 also pointed to his dangerous tendencies towards minors, as revealed in psychological evaluations showing his troubling attitudes and behaviors.