Rod Stewart has canceled two performances in Las Vegas this weekend at the last minute, citing a sinus infection and following his doctor's advice. The 81-year-old former Faces frontman was scheduled to perform on May 29 and May 30 at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace as part of his long-running "Encore" residency, but both shows were nixed shortly before he was due to take the stage.
Statement from the Singer
In a statement to the Las Vegas Review, a representative for Stewart explained: "Following his doctor's advice, Rod Stewart has regretfully cancelled his performances at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on May 29 and 30, but is scheduled to return with shows beginning June 2." Stewart himself added in a personal message: "My apologies to my family of fans. I am on vocal rest as I recover from a sinus infection. I look forward to seeing you at a future show at Caesars Palace or on tour this summer."
Refunds and Future Shows
Stewart was reportedly in good health when he completed a show last Wednesday, and he is expected to return to the venue on June 2. Ticketmaster has confirmed that refunds will be issued for the canceled performances.
Political Comments
Earlier this year, Stewart made headlines for slamming President Donald Trump's false claims that NATO soldiers avoided the front lines in Afghanistan. The "Maggie May" rocker branded Trump a "draft dodger" in a video posted to Instagram. He said: "I was born just after [World War II], and I'd like respect for our armed forces who fought and gave us our freedom, so it hurts me badly, deeply, that I read the draft dodger Trump is criticizing our troops in Afghanistan for not being on the front line." Stewart added: "We lost over 400 of our guys. Think of their parents, think about it, when Trump calls them almost like cowards. It's unbearable." He called on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to make "draft dodger Trump apologize."
Past Friendship with Trump
Stewart and Trump were reportedly good friends in previous years. In an interview with Radio Times, Stewart said he used to know Trump "very, very well" and would attend his Christmas parties, but they were no longer friends after Trump became president. Stewart remarked: "I'm not a great fan of Trump. I knew him very, very well. I used to go to his house." He added that he lives "literally half a mile away" from Trump in Palm Beach, Florida.
