Sir Rod Stewart's decision to retire from touring may save his life, according to a longevity expert. The 81-year-old singer announced his final tour in a statement on Monday, September 28, following a recent coronary stent procedure that forced him to cancel the remainder of his US and Mexico tour dates in August 2026.
Doctor's warning over rock star lifestyle
In light of his health issues, longevity expert Dr. Gabe Mirkin claimed his decision is for the best. "At his age and with his health history, he needs to get away from the life of a rock star – if he wants to stay alive," he told RadarOnline.
The Maggie May hitmaker announced his final tour in a statement, writing: "My dear friends, the time has come to say farewell to life on the road. After more than six decades, The Final Encore will most definitely be my last. I’ve been singing the music I love since I was 19 years old, and I’ve had the privilege of taking it around the world to all of you."
Coronary stent surgery and recovery
Rod was hospitalised on Sunday, August 9, and was taken for what was described at the time as an "unforeseen" medical procedure. It was later confirmed in a statement on his official Instagram page that he underwent an operation to have a coronary stent fitted – a device inserted to improve blood flow through a narrowed or blocked coronary artery.
"Following further medical evaluation, Sir Rod Stewart has successfully undergone a routine coronary stent procedure. Doctors are pleased with his recovery, and Rod is doing very well and has returned to his normal daily activities," the statement read.
"On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates. Information regarding affected performances will be communicated by the respective promoters and venues," it concluded.
Fans reassured after surgery
He was put on four weeks of bed rest on doctors' orders, post-surgery, but he reassured fans in a statement: "I'm already feeling better and very much on the mend. I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me. I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down."
Express.co.uk has contacted representatives for Rod Stewart for comment on the remarks.
