Sir Tom Jones has admitted he feared he was dying after being admitted to hospital with a severe case of flu last week. The 86-year-old singer, who recently finished his time on The Voice UK, told an audience at the Greek Theatre on Wednesday night that he thought his life was coming to an end while receiving treatment at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.
A Heartbreaking Admission on Stage
Returning to the stage after being forced to cancel or postpone several concerts, Jones opened up about the severity of his illness. "[I thought] Oh well, this is it, you've had a wonderful life, Tommy, but it's over right now," he said. "I must say this, in the UCLA, they really did a wonderful job. So I'm here."
He added: "[The medical staff said] What do you want to do now? I was in there for a week. And I said, 'I've got to get back on the stage'. This is where I belong. I can't live without this, believe me."
Tour Interrupted by Illness
Jones is currently midway through the US leg of his Come Gather Round Tour, having already completed 21 shows across America. He announced the postponement of his shows on October 25 and 26 in Los Angeles, as well as a concert in San Diego, on medical advice.
Taking to Instagram at the time, he wrote: "Following doctor's advice, I unfortunately have to reschedule tonight's show in Los Angeles and tomorrow's show in San Diego.. I've had a great time these last few weeks, completing 20 shows and singing for wonderful audiences across the USA, but unexpectedly I've been hit with a bad case of the flu."
He went on to say: "I'm truly sorry for any inconvenience caused. I look forward to seeing you all soon."
A Career Spanning Seven Decades
All tickets for the original dates will remain valid. However, if customers are unable to attend the rescheduled dates, they are advised to contact their original point of purchase for a refund.
Jones's career has stretched over seven decades, with the singer notching up three UK number one singles and four chart-topping albums. Among his accolades are one Grammy and two Brits, and in 2006 he was bestowed with a knighthood by the late Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his services to music.
