Sir Tom Jones has revealed he feared his life was coming to an end after a serious flu bout sent him to hospital. The 86-year-old Welsh singer was admitted to the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles last week and was forced to cancel or postpone several concerts.
Return to the stage
He returned to performing on Wednesday evening at the Greek Theatre, where he spoke to the audience about how severe his illness had been. Reflecting on the moment he thought he might die, he said: "[I thought] Oh well, this is it, you've had a wonderful life, Tommy, but it's over right now."
He praised the care he received, adding: "I must say this, in the UCLA, they really did a wonderful job. So I'm here." He also recalled telling medical staff: "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 disruption
Sir Tom is midway through the American leg of his Come Gather Round Tour, having already completed 21 shows across the US. He said he had "unexpectedly been hit with a bad case of the flu", with doctors strongly advising him against performing.
His concerts on 25 and 26 October in Los Angeles, as well as his San Diego show, were postponed on medical grounds. In an Instagram post 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 added: "I'm truly sorry for any inconvenience caused. I look forward to seeing you all soon."
Ticket details and career legacy
All tickets for the original dates remain valid. Customers unable to attend the rescheduled dates are advised to contact their original point of purchase for a refund.
Sir Tom's career spans more than seven decades, during which he has secured three UK number one singles and four chart-topping albums. His accolades include a Grammy Award and two Brit Awards, and in 2006 he was knighted by the late Queen Elizabeth II for his contribution to music.
