Rod Stewart cancels tour dates after heart surgery

Rod Stewart has canceled the remainder of his 2026 US tour following a heart procedure, with new details emerging about the nature of the surgery and his recent health challenges. The 81-year-old rock legend, known for hits such as “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, underwent a routine coronary stent procedure to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, according to a message posted on his Instagram page. The operation, described as “unforeseen but minor” by his team, required four weeks of recovery before he can return to the stage. Stewart’s management confirmed the cancellation of all remaining US and Mexico dates, including a six-night run at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, with performances scheduled through September.

The singer, who has kept up a busy touring schedule despite his age, previously stated in 2025: “I love what I do, and I do what I love. I’m fit, have a full head of hair and can run 100 metres (330 feet) in 18 seconds.” His recent cancellations have drawn attention, including a June show in California canceled due to laryngitis and a World Cup match attended days later, which sparked criticism. In June, he was also seen receiving oxygen during a performance in Utah and later told the audience he had nearly fainted.

Stewart’s team confirmed he is “doing very well” and has “returned to his normal daily activities” after the procedure. A statement emphasized the operation was “routine” and that doctors are “pleased with his recovery.” The singer expressed gratitude to medical staff and apologized to fans, saying, “I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”

The cancellation follows a series of recent health-related tour adjustments. In June, Stewart was seen using an oxygen tank during a performance in Utah after feeling faint, and he later canceled a San Diego show due to laryngitis. Earlier this year, he postponed concerts in Cincinnati and Cleveland after doctors advised rest. His team described the latest issue as an “unforeseen but minor medical procedure” that required “prompt attention,” though the exact circumstances of his hospitalization remain unspecified.

Fans took to social media to express concern and support. Jools Holland, frontman of Squeeze, tweeted, “Get well soon dear pal,” while others praised Stewart’s resilience. One fan wrote, “You didn’t let people down! You’ve been performing for us for 50+ years. We are grateful for your talent…” Another added, “We know your health is more important… and we want you to be Forever Young!”

Stewart’s tour disruptions highlight ongoing challenges for aging performers. In May, he canceled Nevada shows due to a sinus infection and later postponed a San Diego concert after contracting laryngitis. Despite these setbacks, he has maintained a rigorous schedule, including a 2025 statement asserting, “I’m fit, have a full head of hair and can run 100 metres in 18 seconds.” His recent cancellations have drawn scrutiny, particularly after he attended a World Cup match days after canceling a June show due to illness.

The singer’s family life contrasts with the tour drama. Earlier this month, Stewart and his daughter Ruby celebrated the birth of their sixth grandchild, a son named Levi. This personal milestone comes as his career faces renewed questions about balancing health and performance. While his team has not indicated whether future tours will be affected, the latest cancellation underscores the physical demands of sustained touring at his age.

Details about affected performances will be communicated by promoters and venues. Two shows in Colorado are still scheduled for September 2027. For now, Stewart’s focus remains on recovery, with his representatives stating he will “regain full fitness before returning to the stage.”