In the new documentary Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Patti Scialfa, Bruce Springsteen’s wife and an integral member of the E Street Band, opens up about her battle with multiple myeloma, a rare form of cancer she was diagnosed with in 2018.
The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, provides an intimate look at the impact of Scialfa’s condition on her ability to tour and perform.
Since joining the E Street Band in 1984, Scialfa has also enjoyed a successful solo career, collaborating with notable artists such as Don Cherry and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and contributing as a songwriter and producer.
Scialfa and Springsteen, who married in 1991, have three children: sons Evan and Samuel, and daughter Jessica. In the documentary, Scialfa discusses the challenges she faces due to her illness, noting, “It felt so good to be back on stage” and acknowledging the difficulty of balancing her health with her performance schedule.
“Touring has become a challenge for me. This affects my immune system, so I have to be careful what I choose to do and where I choose to go.”
Despite her health struggles, Scialfa remains optimistic, finding joy in the occasional opportunity to perform. “Every once in a while, I come to a show or two and I can sing a few songs on stage, and that’s been a treat,” she says.
Although she did not attend the documentary’s premiere, Scialfa expressed that it offers fans a rare glimpse into her and Springsteen’s personal relationship. The film will be available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ starting October 25.