Rod Stewart cancels Las Vegas shows due to flu: Rock legend apologizes to fans

80-year-old icon forced to postpone Caesar’s Palace Residency dates
Sir Rod Stewart, the legendary British rock star currently performing his Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, has been forced to cancel multiple shows after being diagnosed with the flu. The 80-year-old “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” singer made the difficult announcement via Instagram, expressing his devastation at disappointing fans who had planned to see him perform in June.
The announcement that disappointed thousands
Taking to social media with a heartfelt message, Stewart wrote: “I have to cancel and reschedule my next six concerts in June as I continue to recover from the flu. So sorry, my friends. I’m devastated and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience to my fans. I’ll be back on stage and will see you soon.”
The announcement, signed “Sir Rod” with a broken heart emoji, reflects the genuine disappointment the performer feels about missing these scheduled performances. For an artist who has built his reputation on energetic live shows over six decades, being sidelined by illness is particularly frustrating.
Las Vegas shows hit hard
The cancellations significantly impact Stewart’s Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum Theater at Caesars Palace, one of the premier entertainment venues on the Strip. Three scheduled performances have been canceled:
- June 7, 2025
- June 8, 2025
- June 10, 2025
These dates represent a substantial portion of Stewart’s June residency schedule, leaving fans who had booked trips to Las Vegas specifically to see the rock icon disappointed. The Colosseum, which has hosted legendary performers throughout its history, will have to manage ticket refunds and accommodate disappointed fans who may have traveled from far distances.
Beyond the strip: Lake Tahoe also affected
The illness has also forced Stewart to cancel his June 14 performance at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic in Stateline, Nevada. This outdoor venue, known for its stunning natural setting and intimate concert experience, attracts both locals and tourists looking for entertainment beyond Las Vegas proper.
California dates rescheduled
While Nevada shows faced outright cancellations, Stewart’s team managed to reschedule two California performances:
- The June 12 show at Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage has been moved to September 20, 2025
- The June 15 concert at Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles has been rescheduled for September 21, 2025
These rescheduled dates offer some consolation to California fans, though the three-month delay may still pose challenges for those who had made travel arrangements.
A pattern of health struggles
This isn’t Stewart’s first bout with illness affecting his performance schedule. Earlier in the week, he had already canceled shows on June 1 and June 5, with his doctor ordering “a bit more rest” for recovery. The pattern suggests that what might have initially seemed like a minor illness has proven more persistent than anticipated.
For an 80-year-old performer maintaining the rigorous schedule of a Las Vegas residency combined with touring, even a common flu can have significant impacts. The physical demands of Stewart’s high-energy performances, combined with the need to protect his iconic voice, make full recovery essential before returning to the stage.
Recent triumph at American Music Awards
The timing of Stewart’s illness is particularly unfortunate given his recent career highlight. Just last month, in May 2025, Stewart received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Music Awards, held at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The honor, previously bestowed only on Diana Ross in 2017, recognized Stewart’s extraordinary six-decade career in music.
During the ceremony, Stewart performed his 1988 hit “Forever Young” in a white tuxedo and pinstripe trousers, marking his first AMA performance since 2004. The award was presented by five of his eight children, whose surprise appearance left the rock legend “absolutely flabbergasted.”
Glastonbury and beyond: Future performances in question
All eyes now turn to Stewart’s scheduled appearance at the legendary Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom on June 29. The rock icon is slated to perform in the coveted “Legends Slot” on the Pyramid Stage, a performance that promises to be a career highlight. Stewart has revealed plans for special guests, including a reunion with his former Faces bandmate Ronnie Wood.
The Glastonbury appearance holds special significance as Stewart’s first performance at the festival since 2002. At 80, he would be among the oldest performers to grace the famous stage, making his recovery all the more crucial.
The “One Last Time” tour continues
Despite the current setbacks, Stewart’s extensive touring schedule remains largely intact. His “One Last Time” world tour, which he has clarified will be his final large-scale tour (though not a retirement from performing), includes:
- Dozens of shows across North America throughout summer 2025
- Additional Las Vegas residency dates in September and October
- Performances across South America and Europe
The tour’s name has caused some confusion among fans, prompting Stewart to clarify his intentions in 2023: “I’d like to clear up any confusion that I may have caused with my dear fans and the media. I shall never retire! I was put on this earth to be a singer and will keep doing so for as long as the good Lord lets me.”
A living legend’s philosophy
Stewart’s approach to his career at 80 reflects his enduring passion for performance. In his clarification about retirement rumors, he eloquently stated: “I could never turn my back on the songs that I’ve written and sung over the last six decades. They are like my children. I created them and I love them.”
This philosophy helps explain why the current cancellations are so personally devastating for the performer. Each show represents not just a professional obligation but a personal connection with fans and his musical legacy.
Staying fit at 80
In recent interviews, Stewart has shared insights into how he maintains his performance stamina at 80. Speaking with AARP, he revealed his fitness routine with characteristic humor: “Lots of women, drugs and wine. [Laughs.] No, I keep myself very fit.”
His actual regimen is impressive:
- A trainer for 38 years
- Regular swimming, including underwater training exercises
- Access to an indoor pool and massive gym at his home
- Golf for leisure and fitness
He even described a specific exercise where his trainer throws a brick into the pool, which Stewart must dive down to retrieve and push to the other end—a testament to his commitment to maintaining the physical condition necessary for his energetic performances.
Impact on Las Vegas entertainment scene
Stewart’s residency at Caesars Palace represents part of Las Vegas’s evolution as an entertainment destination. The city has increasingly attracted legacy acts who combine nostalgic appeal with continued artistic relevance. His cancellations, while temporary, highlight the challenges of maintaining these demanding performance schedules.
For Caesars Entertainment, Stewart’s residency is a valuable draw. The Colosseum, purpose-built for Celine Dion’s groundbreaking residency, has hosted numerous legendary performers. Stewart’s shows consistently sell out, attracting both longtime fans and newer audiences drawn to his timeless hits and charismatic stage presence.
Looking forward
As Stewart focuses on recovery, fans holding tickets for canceled shows await information about refunds or potential rescheduled dates. The September and October Las Vegas dates remain on the calendar, offering hope that the rock legend will return to The Colosseum stage once fully recovered.
The situation serves as a reminder that even music’s most enduring performers face health challenges. Stewart’s transparent communication with fans, his genuine regret about the cancellations, and his determination to return to the stage reflect the professionalism and dedication that have sustained his career for over 60 years.
For now, Las Vegas audiences must wait a bit longer to hear classics like “Maggie May,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy,” and “Forever Young” performed live by one of rock’s true survivors. But if Stewart’s history is any indication, he’ll be back on stage as soon as his health permits, ready to prove once again why he remains one of music’s most beloved performers.
Image Source: https://apnews.com/article/rod-stewart-music-swing-c41c973f860ee668041748993aad4cd8
Category: Nightlife
Subcategory: Entertainment, Events
Date: 07/01/2025