Introduction
Rod Stewart Delays More Shows Due to Lingering Illness, But Vows: “I’m Not Done Yet”
On June 14, 2025, Sir Rod Stewart sent shockwaves through fans once again by postponing yet another concert at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas—marking his third cancelled show in less than a week. The 80-year-old icon took to Instagram to announce the decision, writing: “Deeply sorry to disappoint you all. I’ve been told to rest my voice completely to kick this nasty flu once and for all.”
The British rock legend, known for his tireless performance energy, has been battling a stubborn viral infection since late May. While his management initially hoped he would rebound in time for his June 15 performance, medical advice ultimately led to the additional cancellation.
According to a spokesperson, Stewart is under close watch by his physicians, who confirmed that he is suffering from vocal inflammation and fatigue brought on by persistent fever and respiratory congestion. Fortunately, recent checkups ruled out pneumonia or any deeper complications, and a full recovery is expected by early July.
Timeline of Delays and Updates:
June 10: First show in Las Vegas postponed to June 17
June 12: Second date cancelled, pending reschedule
June 14: Third show officially pulled from schedule
June 17 & 18: Still listed, but marked “tentative”
Stewart’s team emphasized that this is a “short pause, not a retirement,” and that the artist is eager to return to the stage soon. This flu is the latest in a string of health hurdles Rod has faced, including a bout with COVID-19 in 2024 and laryngitis during his European leg last year.
Still Not Slowing Down
Despite recent interruptions, Rod Stewart has shown no signs of wanting to quit music. “I’ll stop when my knees or my fans give out—and neither have yet,” he told Rolling Stone UK earlier this year. His “One More for the Road” world tour is still scheduled to wrap up in Tokyo this November, and insiders say he’s preparing a surprise EP of blues covers for late 2025.
Part of what’s kept him going is a strict fitness regime. Stewart works out four days a week with a private coach and even swims laps daily in his home pool in Essex. “I’m fitter at 80 than I was at 50. No joke,” he recently told BBC Radio 2.
He’s also a survivor of two major health battles: thyroid cancer in 2000, which required surgery and retraining his iconic voice, and prostate cancer in 2019, which he caught early through routine testing.
Fans React with Support and Sympathy
Fans from around the world, many of whom traveled long distances, responded with compassion to Stewart’s health update. One Instagram comment read, “Came all the way from Sydney, but your health comes first. We’ll wait.” Another fan posted, “The show can wait. You’ve already given us six decades of memories.”
While many were naturally disappointed, the overwhelming response was one of patience and gratitude—underscoring the unique affection audiences have for the man behind “Maggie May” and “Forever Young.”
What About Ticket Holders?
June 10 ticketholders: Automatically moved to June 17
June 12 & 14 ticketholders: Awaiting new dates or refund offers
Communication: Caesars Palace has promised to email all affected attendees within 5 business days of any schedule change
Not the Final Bow—Just a Breather
Doctors expect Rod Stewart to return to vocal rehearsals by the end of June if recovery continues smoothly. Historically, Stewart has bounced back from illness with even more fire—often adding new songs or surprise collaborations to thank loyal fans.
As he famously joked while accepting his 2025 American Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, “I’ve still got the legs, the lungs, and the leopard print. So don’t write me off yet.”
Until then, fans can stream his latest UK chart-topping album, “Swing Fever”, and keep an eye on his official channels for updates. If Rod Stewart has his way, the final curtain is still a long way off.