Legendary British singer Rod Stewart has announced the cancellation and rescheduling of six U.S. concert dates originally scheduled for June, citing a flu-related illness. The announcement, made via Stewart’s Instagram account, comes just weeks ahead of his much-anticipated performance at the Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom.
Flu Forces Last-Minute Changes to Tour Schedule
The 79-year-old rock icon was forced to cancel three shows slated for the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, a performance at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys in Nevada, and two additional concerts in California. These dates have now been rescheduled for September, Stewart’s team confirmed.
In his message to fans, Stewart expressed regret for the sudden cancellations, stating, “I’m absolutely devastated to let you down but unfortunately, the flu has gotten the better of me.” He reassured fans of his commitment to return to the stage as soon as his health permits.
Eyes on Glastonbury and a Global Tour
Stewart’s next major appearance remains scheduled for June 29 at the Glastonbury Festival, one of the world’s premier music events. His return to the UK stage is expected to be a significant highlight of the festival’s lineup, and his team has given no indication that this appearance is in jeopardy.
Following Glastonbury, Stewart is expected to continue his tour with stops across North America, South America, and Europe well into 2025. His itinerary includes both arena and outdoor performances, underscoring his sustained popularity across multiple continents.
A Career That Continues to Shine
Though Stewart has previously hinted at stepping back from his traditional rock repertoire to focus more on big-band and jazz styles, he made it clear in a 2023 interview that he has no intention of retiring. “This is what I was born to do, and I’ll continue doing it as long as the fans keep coming,” Stewart said at the time.
Known for his gravelly voice and flamboyant stage presence, Stewart has enjoyed a career spanning more than six decades. He has sold over 250 million records worldwide and remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Hits like “Maggie May,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” and “Forever Young” remain staples of classic rock playlists.
Recent Honors and Legacy Recognition
In a significant acknowledgment of his enduring legacy, Stewart was recently honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards. The accolade marks only the second time the honor has been given out, with Diana Ross being the first recipient in 2017.
Accepting the award, Stewart reflected on his decades-long journey in music. “It’s been a wonderful ride and I’m not finished yet,” he remarked during his acceptance speech, drawing applause and cheers from the audience.
Industry Reaction and Fan Support
The announcement of the tour cancellations was met with disappointment but also understanding from fans, many of whom took to social media to wish Stewart a speedy recovery. Industry peers also expressed support, with fellow musicians and promoters acknowledging the toll a rigorous touring schedule can take, especially for veteran artists.
Promoters have confirmed that all previously purchased tickets for the affected shows will be honored for the new September dates, and refunds will be available for those unable to attend.
As fans eagerly await his return to the stage later this month at Glastonbury, the recent changes serve as a reminder of the physical demands of live performance—even for seasoned entertainers. Yet, if Stewart’s history is any indication, the rock legend is far from finished, ready to once again captivate audiences with his timeless voice and enduring charisma.