LOS ANGELES, CA — Rod Stewart, one of the most iconic voices in rock and pop, has faced an unexpected setback in his 2025 world tour due to a recent health issue. On June 8, 2025, Stewart, 80, announced through his social media channels that he would be canceling six upcoming U.S. tour dates due to a serious flu infection. This marks the second time in recent years that Stewart has faced health-related cancellations.
The six canceled performances were set to take place in major cities across the United States, including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. The tour had been planned as part of Stewart’s “Final Chapter” series of concerts, which he has described as the grand farewell to his decades-long career. The announcement came after Stewart had successfully performed several dates in Europe earlier this spring, where he received praise for his energetic performances and vocal strength. However, health problems emerged while Stewart was preparing for the U.S. leg of the tour. In his statement, Stewart apologized to fans and reassured them that he would be back on stage as soon as he was healthy enough.
This latest round of cancellations follows a series of health challenges that Stewart has experienced in recent years. In 2023, Stewart was diagnosed with a throat infection, which forced him to cancel several shows in the U.S. and the U.K. On top of these struggles, Stewart also battled a severe case of COVID-19 in early 2024, which led to a pause in touring altogether. Despite these setbacks, Stewart, known for his resilience, was determined to return to touring in 2025, but now faces another unexpected hurdle.
Fans of the iconic singer have been overwhelmingly supportive, expressing their understanding on social media. Many have shared well-wishes for Stewart’s recovery, with some recalling their own unforgettable experiences at his past concerts, often reflecting on the decades-long career that has seen Stewart sell more than 100 million records globally.
Rod Stewart’s journey to superstardom began in the late 1960s, first as the lead vocalist of The Jeff Beck Group and later as a member of Faces, before launching a solo career that would span five decades. His unmistakable voice, blending elements of rock, soul, and pop, made him a fixture of classic rock radio. Stewart’s musical versatility has seen him experiment with various genres over the years, from his early folk influences to the swinging pop tunes of the 1970s, and even venture into jazz and standards in recent years.
Stewart’s 2025 tour was poised to highlight some of his most beloved hits, including “Maggie May,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, and “Forever Young.” The performances were expected to be a mix of crowd-pleasers and deep cuts from his extensive catalog, showcasing the breadth of his long career. Fans were also anticipating a special appearance by Ronnie Wood, Stewart’s former bandmate from Faces, who had been slated to join Stewart on stage for select shows. The reunion of the two rock legends was expected to be one of the most memorable moments of the tour.
Health Concerns and Tour Cancellation Impact
Stewart’s flu infection comes at a time when many artists are returning to the road after the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The live music industry has faced significant challenges in the last few years, with artists having to cancel tours or adjust performance schedules due to health concerns and travel restrictions. As a result, the cancellation of Stewart’s shows is not just disappointing for his fans but also for the venues and promoters involved in the tour.
The U.S. leg of the tour, initially planned to kick off in early June, had been a highly anticipated event, drawing fans from across the country. The tour’s postponement means lost revenue for the venues, many of which have already made significant investments in production, staffing, and marketing. As a result, fans are left to wonder how soon Stewart will be able to make up the missed dates. Some sources suggest that additional dates could be added later in 2025, after Stewart has fully recovered, though nothing has been confirmed.
While Stewart remains positive about his recovery, health experts have raised concerns about the physical toll that long tours can take on performers, particularly as they age. The rigorous demands of a full tour schedule, combined with travel, rehearsals, and performances, can be overwhelming, especially for older musicians who may face vulnerabilities in their immune systems. Stewart’s fans have shown remarkable patience, but many are hoping that the singer will take the necessary time to recover fully before returning to the stage.
Looking Ahead: Rod Stewart’s Legacy and the Future of His Career
Rod Stewart’s place in the pantheon of rock and pop icons is firmly cemented. His contribution to the music industry spans over six decades, and his career continues to inspire generations of musicians. Stewart is known for his incredible work ethic and passion for performing, having consistently maintained a high standard for his live performances.
Even at the age of 80, Stewart remains one of the most energetic and charismatic performers in the industry. His concerts are often celebrated for their intimacy, with Stewart engaging deeply with his audience. Fans consistently praise his stamina, often remarking that his voice still sounds as powerful as it did in his younger years.
As Stewart takes a step back from the limelight to recover, the future of his tour remains uncertain, but his influence on the music world is undiminished. Despite the setbacks, Stewart has maintained a sense of humor and optimism, often joking about his age and ability to continue delivering for his fans. His spirit of resilience, particularly in the face of health challenges, remains an inspiration for artists and fans alike.