Legendary British singer Morrissey has been compelled to postpone his first two scheduled live performances of 2026, citing a severe reaction to prescription medication. The news adds to a growing list of recent cancellations for the former Smiths frontman.
California Dates Postponed
The enigmatic 66-year-old was set to perform at the Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage, California, on January 3, 2026. A follow-up show at the San Diego Civic Theatre on January 6 was also planned. Both engagements have now been abruptly shelved.
A statement from the Agua Caliente Casino confirmed the postponement, explaining it was due to "an adverse reaction to a prescription medication." The venue advised ticket holders to retain their passes for a soon-to-be-confirmed rescheduled date, while also offering refunds through the original point of purchase.
The San Diego Civic Theatre issued a similar notice on its official Instagram page, declaring the event cancelled and informing patrons that refunds were available.
A Pattern of Cancellations
This latest health setback comes just two months after Morrissey cancelled a full slate of South American tour dates in November 2025, blaming 'extreme exhaustion'. That tour was to include concerts in Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Santiago, Lima, and Bogotá.
Prior to that, in late October 2025, two concerts in Mexico were axed at the last minute for the same reason. A promoter's statement cited the artist's extreme exhaustion as the cause for cancelling shows in Mexico City and Zapopan.
Fan Reaction: Disappointed But Not Surprised
Reacting to the news on social media, many fans expressed a weary lack of surprise. Comments on the cancellation announcements included sentiments such as "Disappointed but not surprised" and "As expected."
One fan pointedly asked, "Didn’t he cancel last year too????", while another noted they were cancelling "RESCHEDULED shows," calling it "classic Morrissey."
A Turbulent Touring Period
The past year has been particularly fraught for Morrissey's live appearances. Beyond the cited exhaustion and medical reaction, other cancellations have stemmed from external factors.
In October 2025, planned December concerts in Turkey were scrapped following a backlash over his past support for Israel, which included a viral video of him performing draped in an Israeli flag.
Furthermore, in September 2025, the singer cancelled gigs in Connecticut and Boston after his management received what was described as a 'credible threat' to assassinate him on stage. Messages posted on his official Facebook page cited an abundance of caution for the safety of the artist and audience.
With the new year beginning with postponed shows, fans and promoters alike will be hoping for a more stable touring schedule for the iconic, if unpredictable, singer in the months ahead.
