Penny Lancaster has reassured fans that husband Sir Rod Stewart is fine after being spotted using an oxygen tank during a performance near Salt Lake City, Utah. Speaking on ITV's Loose Women, she explained that the incident "looked a lot scarier than it really was."
What Caused the Oxygen Tank Use?
The legendary singer, 81, had to cancel a couple of shows prior due to a respiratory infection. Penny explained that Rod was recovering and well enough to perform, but was unaware that Salt Lake City's altitude was significantly above sea level. "For your regular person, it is a challenge," she said, noting that sportsmen usually arrive a week early to acclimatise. Rod flew in on the day of the show and was already down on oxygen due to the infection, then lost an additional 17% oxygen from altitude.
During his two-hour show, which involves running around non-stop, the lack of oxygen hit him. However, Penny clarified that oxygen tanks are standard at these venues for performers who may suffer from altitude effects, even younger ones after a late night.
Rod Finished the Show
Penny revealed that Rod messaged her after the show to explain what happened. Despite the scare, he carried on and finished the performance. She noted it was hard to watch because Rod is extremely fit, but the cause was purely altitude and the respiratory infection.
"That was purely what it was. It was just that altitude and the lack of oxygen," Penny concluded.
