Rod Stewart, 81, forced to cancel 2 shows due to health issues requiring 'prompt attention'


Sir Rod Stewart was forced to cancel two live performances on his One Last Time tour due to a 'medical' issue that required 'prompt attention'


Rod Stewart on stage singing into a microphone© Getty Images
Jenni McKnight
Jenni McKnightUS Lifestyle Editor
1 hour ago
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Sir Rod Stewart has stepped back from performing this week after a health issue required "prompt attention," forcing him to cancel two shows on his One Last Time tour.

The 81-year-old pulled out of his performance at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on Sunday, August 9, at the last minute due to a "minor medical procedure."

"Due to an unforeseen but minor medical procedure that required prompt attention, Rod Stewart's performance tonight in Cincinnati at Riverbend Music Center has been POSTPONED," the venue shared in a statement on its website.

The venue noted that the show will be rescheduled for a later date, with more information available on Tuesday, August 11.

"All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the rescheduled date," the statement continued. "Rod is expected to make a quick recovery and looks forward to returning to Cincinnati."

However, his recovery is still ongoing, as Rod later canceled his show in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday, August 11.

Rod Stewart on stage, wearing a gold jacket and striped pants, holding a microphone stand. Another musician plays guitar behind him.© Getty Images
Rod has canceled another two shows on his One Last Time tour

"Following a period of monitoring, doctors have advised Rod Stewart to rest for at least 48 hours. As a result, his performance tomorrow night, August 11, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland has been cancelled," Rocket Arena shared on Instagram Monday evening.

"Rod is disappointed to miss the show and appreciates everyone's understanding. He looks forward to returning to the stage soon. Refunds are available at point of purchase," the statement added.

Rod's health woes

Rod Stewart performs onstage during day five of the Glastonbury Festival 2025 at Worthy Farm, Pilton on June 29, 2025 in Glastonbury, England© Getty Images
Rod has had several setbacks with his health lately

It's not the first time this year that Rod's health has disrupted his tour, prompting him to cancel or postpone concerts during May and June.

He pulled out of a June 12 show in Chula Vista, California, less than an hour before he was due to perform, after being diagnosed with an acute upper respiratory infection, laryngitis and vocal fold strain.

The decision sparked frustration when the singer was pictured travelling to Boston with sons Liam and Alastair the following day to watch Scotland play Haiti in the FIFA World Cup.

Sir Rod Stewart (third left) in the stands during the FIFA World Cup Group C match at Boston Stadium, Foxborough© Getty Images
Rod (third left) caused controversy when he attended a World Cup game after canceling a show

Rod later acknowledged that attending the match had not looked good but explained that he had promised his sons he would take them to a World Cup game. Although he felt well enough to travel, he said he had been unable to sing at the canceled concert.

Shows at Colorado's Red Rocks Amphitheatre were subsequently postponed while he rested his voice.

Further concern arose during a June 19 concert in West Valley City, Utah, when Rod became unsteady and briefly stopped the performance to use an oxygen tank.

Rod sang for over 200 guests at the intimate event© Lane Oliveri
Rod appeared in good health when he performed on July 29 in Southampton, New York

The singer told the audience he had nearly fainted while trying to dance but insisted that "the show must go on" and resumed the concert. The venue's high altitude and hot weather were thought to have contributed to his breathlessness.

However, he appeared to be back on form on July 29 when he performed at an exclusive benefit for Steven Van Zandt's TeachRock charity in Southampton, New York.

Rod reportedly performed for an hour and a half at the luxurious Hamptons residence, treating guests to classics including "The First Cut Is the Deepest," "Have I Told You Lately" and the aptly titled "Forever Young."

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