Rod Stewart provides update on Australian concerts after show cancellation

The British rocker has addressed his abrupt concert cancellation in Melbourne – giving fans a health update ahead of his upcoming shows.

Rod Stewart has given fans an update after cancelling his concert over the weekend.

Rod Stewart has provided an update after cancelling his show in Victoria at the weekend.

The British rock legend, 78, was set to perform alongside Cyndi Lauper and Jon Stevens at A Day On The Green festival in Geelong on Saturday night.

But just hours before the gates were due to open, a “downhearted” Stewart took to social media to advise fans his performance wasn’t going ahead due to illness.

With Stewart slated to perform at AEC Arena in Adelaide tonight, March 21, he’s taken to Instagram to give fans an update on his condition.

“My dear friends in Adelaide, just to guarantee that the show will be going ahead,” Stewart said in a video posted to his Instagram stories.

“I had a slight setback here in Melbourne, I had to miss the show because I had strep throat.

“I’m fine now, I’ll be there and I’m looking forward to it.”

Rod Stewart has given fans an update after cancelling his concert over the weekend.

Stewart, Lauper and Stevens will hit the stage in South Australia’s capital tonight, before headlining A Day On The Green at Mount Cotton in Queensland on Saturday and Sunday.

They’ll finish up their shows in New South Wales, performing at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on March 29, Hunter Valley’s Roche Estate on April 1, and Bowral’s Centennial Vineyards on April 2.

It comes as ticket holders in Geelong, who are still yet to hear whether refunds will be given out, were disheartened the act was cancelled so last minute, having travelled lengthy distances specifically for the show.

Others highlighted the huge expense they had spared hoping to see the performance, including on transport and accommodation.

Rod Stewart has been touring Australia this month, pictured here at Rod Laver Arena on March 14. Picture: Sam Tabone/WireImage

Stewart posted to his Instagram with the disappointing news around midday Saturday.

“Hello, my friends. I’m absolutely downhearted that I’m disappointing my fans who bought tickets to A Day on the Green,” he began.

“Late this morning I was advised that I have a viral infection and my throat is too irritated to sing. I’m only human and sometimes get sick just like you do.

“My greatest joy is performing for you, so I’m doing everything I can to get on the mend and back on stage!”

The promoters, Live Nation and Roundhouse Entertainment, posted an online statement confirming the show would not go ahead.

They said, “A further announcement regarding the concert arrangements will be made early next week.”

Originally published as Rod Stewart provides update on Australian concerts after show cancellation