Rod Stewart Provides Health Update While Canceling 200th Show Celebration
Rod Stewart was supposed to be celebrating his milestone 200th show in Las Vegas, but instead, he's sharing some sad news with fans.
On Wednesday, the "Maggie May" crooner took to his Instagram page with a rather disappointing update for those looking forward to attending his final performance as part of his current Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace on Aug. 7.
"I'm desperately sorry to miss this 200th show celebration," the 79-year-old shared in a text post uploaded to the picture-sharing platform this week before explaining the exact reason for the difficult decision to cancel the show.
"Most people can work with strep throat but obviously not me," Stewart shared, adding, "I'm absolutely gutted. I've been looking forward to this concert for so long."
The Grammy winner's statement continued with a heartfelt apology before concluding with a bit of optimism and excitement for his upcoming world tour: "My deepest regrets for any inconvenience this has caused. Thankfully we'll now be returning in 2025 and I hope to see you all there."
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The British singer-songwriter's followers met him with respect and understanding as they sent well wishes his way.
"Your health comes first, Sir Rod. Don't apologize. Wishing you a speedy recovery! ??????," one top-liked comment declared.
"Can’t mess with strep! It can be nasty. We’d rather get you healthy to sing to us for many more years! ??," another admitted.
"I’m so heartbroken ??," a third wrote in part. "Wishing you well."
His battle with a bacterial infection aside, Stewart recently confirmed that he has no plans to retire or stop performing just yet, despite suggesting that at his age, his "days are numbered."
"I’m aware my days are numbered, but I’ve got no fear," Stewart told The Sun in an interview published last week.
"We have all got to pass on at some point, so we are all in the same basket," he added. "I am going to be enjoying myself for these last few years as much as I can... I say few — probably another 15. I can do that easy mate, easy."
As for how he's taking care of himself to ensure the longevity of his career, he hinted at a lifestyle change that includes less partying–but not no partying–and drinking a lot more water.
"Nowadays I have to protect my voice before and after every show," he shared. "The older you get, the more you have to do that. Water has a hell of a lot to do with it."
"But no, you think I just have water on my rider?" he joked. "You’re talking to Rod Stewart here, mate. We go mad after every show. There are 13 of us, six women, really great musicians and I make them drink. We absolutely love it."
Next: Rod Stewart Sends a Harsh Message About Ed Sheeran's Music
