Challenges in the Life of Rod Stewart in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 27, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Rod Stewart's life and career.

Sir Rod Stewart is a highly successful British singer and songwriter, recognized for his raspy voice and significant record sales exceeding 120 million worldwide. He began his music career in 1962 and gained experience with bands like the Dimensions, Long John Baldry and the All Stars, and the Jeff Beck Group. He achieved fame with Faces in 1969 while also starting a solo career. His early albums blended rock, folk, soul, and R&B. His breakthrough album, 'Every Picture Tells a Story' (1971), and the hit single 'Maggie May' topped charts internationally. The following album, 'Never a Dull Moment,' also achieved number one status in the UK and Australia.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1963: Deported from Spain

Over 18 months, Wizz Jones and Rod Stewart took their act to Brighton, Paris, and then Barcelona. In 1963, Rod Stewart was deported from Spain for vagrancy.

July 1969: Departure from the Jeff Beck Group

In July 1969, Rod Stewart left the Jeff Beck Group following Ronnie Wood's departure, citing aggravation and unfriendliness within the band.

1972: Release of Never a Dull Moment and tension in Faces

In 1972, Rod Stewart released Never a Dull Moment, and also in 1972, the Faces toured extensively with growing tension due to Stewart's solo success.

1973: Release of Ooh La La and growing rift with Faces

In 1973, Faces released their final album, Ooh La La, which reached number one in the UK. The rift between Rod Stewart and the rest of the Faces grew during the recording of the album.

1975: Faces US tours and eventual breakup

In 1975, Faces toured the US twice. Due to Rod Stewart's solo career and Ronnie Wood's involvement with the Rolling Stones, the Faces broke up at the end of the year.

1982: Car-jacking Incident

In 1982, Rod Stewart was car-jacked on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles while parking his $50,000 Porsche. The car was later recovered.

May 2000: Diagnosis and Surgery for Thyroid Cancer

In May 2000, Rod Stewart was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and underwent surgery the same month, threatening his voice and requiring him to re-learn how to sing.

September 2002: Son's Sentencing

In September 2002, Rod Stewart's son, Sean, was sentenced to three months in jail and required to pay compensation and attend anger management, drug and alcohol treatment courses for attacking a man outside a restaurant in Los Angeles.

January 2020: Arrest in Florida

In January 2020, Rod Stewart and his son Sean were arrested and charged with battery following an incident at a Florida hotel.

2021: Resolution of Battery Case

In 2021, the battery case against Rod Stewart and his son Sean was resolved with both pleading guilty to simple battery in a plea agreement that included no jail time, no probation, and no fine.