Rod Stewart’s Vegas Show Cancellation: Cancer Relapse Fears Emerge
On June 5, 2025, the music world was rocked by news that Sir Rod Stewart, the 80-year-old rock legend, canceled a highly anticipated performance at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas just hours before he was set to take the stage. The abrupt cancellation, accompanied by Stewart’s cryptic and emotional statement, “I fear the worst has happened,” has ignited widespread concern among fans and sparked fears of a possible cancer relapse. With a history of battling both prostate and thyroid cancer, Stewart’s health has been a topic of public interest, and this latest development has intensified speculation. This article explores the circumstances surrounding the cancellation, delves into Stewart’s health history, and examines what this moment could mean for the iconic performer’s future.
The Last-Minute Cancellation
Rod Stewart’s Las Vegas residency, billed as Rod Stewart: The Encore Shows, has been a triumph, with the singer delivering high-energy performances of hits like “Maggie May” and “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” to near-capacity crowds. The show scheduled for June 5 was part of a series following his celebrated 200th performance at the venue in 2024. Fans, many of whom had traveled long distances, were eagerly awaiting another electrifying night when Stewart took to Instagram to deliver the devastating news.
“I’m awfully sorry to have to cancel my show June 5th at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace,” he wrote. “My doctor ordered a bit more rest while I recover from the flu. Thanks for your love and understanding – Rod.” The post, signed with a broken heart emoji, was followed by a more alarming statement in a subsequent update: “I fear the worst has happened.” This cryptic remark, coupled with the sudden nature of the cancellation, sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the media, with many interpreting it as a potential reference to his health history, particularly his past battles with cancer.
The cancellation was not an isolated incident. Stewart had already postponed a June 1 performance, rescheduling it to June 10, citing feeling “not well.” By June 7, he announced the cancellation of four additional shows in Las Vegas and Stateline, Nevada, and the rescheduling of two California performances, stating, “I have to cancel and reschedule my next six concerts in June as I continue to recover from the flu.” While the official reason given was the flu, the repeated cancellations and Stewart’s ominous comment have fueled speculation that something more serious, possibly a cancer relapse, may be at play.
A History of Health Challenges
Rod Stewart’s health has been a rollercoaster, marked by significant battles with cancer. In 2000, he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, a condition that required surgery to remove a tumor. The procedure was successful, and Stewart later shared with USA Today, “It was a shock. But fortunately, I had a particularly slow-growing thyroid cancer which was surgically removed, and now I have a clean bill of health.” The experience, however, left a lasting impact, as the surgery temporarily affected his voice, a critical asset for the singer known for his raspy, soulful tone.
In 2019, Stewart revealed he had been privately fighting prostate cancer for three years, a battle he kept under wraps until he received the all-clear. Speaking to The Mirror, he described the ordeal as a wake-up call, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups: “I caught it early, and that’s the key.” These experiences have made Stewart candid about his mortality. In a 2024 interview with The Sun, he acknowledged, “I’m aware my days are numbered, but I’ve got no fear. I am going to be enjoying myself for these last few years as much as I can. I say few — probably another 15.” His openness about his health has endeared him to fans but also heightened concern when news of cancellations emerges.
More recently, Stewart faced health setbacks in August 2024, when he canceled his 200th Las Vegas show due to strep throat, followed by two additional performances after testing positive for COVID-19. He expressed devastation, writing on Instagram, “Most people can work with strep throat, but obviously not me. I’m absolutely gutted.” These incidents, combined with his current string of cancellations, have led fans to question whether the flu diagnosis is the full story or a cover for a more serious condition, such as a cancer relapse.
The Flu or Something More?
Stewart’s team has consistently cited the flu as the reason for the June 2025 cancellations, with doctors ordering rest to aid recovery. The flu, particularly in an 80-year-old, can be debilitating, especially for a performer whose vocal cords are central to his craft. Dr. Chun Tang, a GP quoted in a 2024 article, noted that illnesses like strep throat and COVID-19 can require “significant rehabilitation” for a singer’s voice, warning that recurring infections could weaken vocal cords over time. This medical perspective supports the idea that Stewart’s cancellations may be precautionary, aimed at protecting his voice for future performances, including his highly anticipated appearance at Glastonbury’s Legends Slot on June 29, 2025.
However, the phrase “I fear the worst has happened” has cast doubt on the flu narrative. Fans on social media, particularly on X, have expressed alarm, with posts like “Rod Stewart’s Condition Worsens: ‘He’s Very Sorry’” amplifying fears of a graver health issue. While these posts are not conclusive evidence, they reflect the public’s anxiety and the sentiment that Stewart’s history of cancer makes a relapse a plausible concern. The lack of specific details about his condition—beyond the flu diagnosis—has only deepened the mystery.
Stewart’s age and rigorous schedule add further context. At 80, he remains remarkably active, performing high-energy shows on his One Last Time tour and planning a Faces reunion with Ronnie Wood at Glastonbury. His fitness regimen, which includes working out three to four times a week with a trainer of 38 years, has kept him in impressive shape, as he boasted to AARP: “I’m fit, have a full head of hair, and can run 100 meters in 18 seconds.” Yet, the physical demands of touring, combined with his past health scares, make him vulnerable to complications from even common illnesses.
The Emotional Toll on Fans and Stewart
The cancellations have left fans heartbroken, with many expressing both concern and frustration. On Instagram, one fan wrote, “Oh gosh, we flew all the way to Vegas to see you! I will try and catch you in Raleigh, feel better Rod,” while another urged, “Take all the time your doctor advises to recuperate, your health comes first.” The outpouring of support underscores Stewart’s enduring connection with his audience, built over a five-decade career that includes classics like “Forever Young” and “Sailing.”
For Stewart, the cancellations are a personal blow. His Instagram posts convey genuine remorse, with phrases like “I’m devastated and sincerely apologize” highlighting the emotional weight of letting fans down. His commitment to rescheduling shows and returning to Las Vegas in the fall, as well as performing at Glastonbury, suggests a determination to push through. However, the fear expressed in his statement hints at a deeper struggle, possibly tied to his awareness of his mortality and the fragility of his health.
Stewart’s Legacy and Future Plans
Rod Stewart’s career is a testament to resilience. From his early days with Faces to his solo hits, he has navigated personal and professional challenges with charisma and grit. His 2025 schedule, including Glastonbury and the release of an Ultimate Hits Album on June 27, reflects his refusal to slow down. He told HELLO! magazine, “I don’t see any possibility of slowing down anytime soon,” a sentiment echoed in his April 2025 Instagram post: “I was put on this earth to be a singer and will keep doing so for as long as the good lord lets me.”
Yet, Stewart has also signaled a shift. In November 2024, he announced that One Last Time would mark the end of large-scale world tours, with plans for a more intimate Great American Songbook and Swing Fever tour in smaller venues. This pivot suggests a desire to preserve his health while continuing to perform, balancing his rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle with the realities of aging. His collaboration with Jools Holland on the 2024 album Swing Fever, which topped UK charts, shows he remains creatively vibrant.
The Glastonbury performance looms large, not only as a career highlight but as a test of his recovery. Stewart’s promise to extend his set to 90 minutes and reunite with Faces members Ronnie Wood and Kenney Jones has fans buzzing with excitement. However, the uncertainty surrounding his health raises questions about whether he’ll be able to deliver.
What’s Next?
The fear of a cancer relapse remains speculative, driven by Stewart’s history and his alarming statement. Without official confirmation, the flu diagnosis stands as the primary explanation, supported by his team’s consistent messaging. Still, the lack of transparency about the “worst” he fears has left room for doubt. Stewart’s upcoming performances, particularly Glastonbury, will be closely watched for signs of his condition. A successful return could quell concerns, while further cancellations might intensify speculation.
For now, Stewart’s fans and the music industry are rallying behind him. His wife, Penny Lancaster, and eight children, who presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards, are a source of strength. As he navigates this challenging moment, Stewart’s legacy as a performer who lives for the stage remains unshaken. Whether this is a temporary setback or a sign of a deeper issue, his determination to keep singing—for another 15 years, as he hopes—continues to inspire.
Conclusion
Rod Stewart’s sudden cancellation of his June 5, 2025, Las Vegas show, followed by his haunting words, “I fear the worst has happened,” has thrust the 80-year-old icon into the spotlight for reasons beyond his music. While the official reason points to the flu, his history of thyroid and prostate cancer, combined with recent health setbacks, has fueled fears of a possible relapse. As fans await updates, Stewart’s resilience and passion for performing offer hope that he’ll overcome this hurdle. His upcoming Glastonbury performance and continued Vegas residency will be pivotal, not just for his career but for reassuring a world that still needs his voice. For now, the rock legend’s story is one of uncertainty, courage, and an unbreakable bond with his audience.
