Sir Tom Jones has shared a disappointing health update after being forced to postpone two concerts at short notice, leaving fans concerned for the legendary singer.
The 86-year-old star had been due to perform in Los Angeles and San Diego as part of his Come Gather Round world tour, but announced that both shows would have to be rescheduled.
Jones apologised to fans after the decision was made following medical advice, with the singer explaining that he had been struggling with an illness.
The announcement came just hours before he was expected to take to the stage at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fans were quick to send their well wishes to the music icon, who has spent more than six decades entertaining audiences around the world.
Tom Jones apologises to fans after cancelling concerts
In a statement shared on Instagram, Jones explained that he had reluctantly decided to postpone the two performances.
“Following doctor’s advice, I unfortunately have to reschedule tonight’s show in Los Angeles and tomorrow’s show in San Diego,” he wrote.
The singer also reflected on his recent run of performances, revealing that he had completed 20 shows across the United States before falling ill.
“I’ve had a great time these last few weeks, completing 20 shows and singing for wonderful audiences across the USA,” he said.
However, he explained that his plans had been interrupted by an unexpected illness, adding: “I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience caused. I look forward to seeing you all soon.”
The rescheduled San Diego concert will take place at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on November 3, while the Los Angeles show has been moved to November 4.
Jones confirmed that tickets for the original dates would remain valid. Fans unable to attend the new dates have been advised to contact their original point of purchase about refunds.
Fans concerned for the legendary singer
The news is particularly disappointing for fans given Jones’s long career and his continued determination to perform live.
The Welsh singer first rose to fame in the 1960s and became known for hits including It’s Not Unusual, What’s New Pussycat?, Delilah and She’s a Lady.
Over the years, he has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and earned numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award, two Brit Awards and an Ivor Novello Award.
He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for his services to music.
Despite his age, Jones has previously made clear that he has no intention of retiring while he is still able to sing.
Speaking to Yours magazine in 2024, he explained that his voice had changed with age but insisted he could still deliver a performance.
“As we get older, our voices drop, and we get more character in them,” he said.
He also admitted that getting older had affected his control over his vocal cords, but added that he felt he still had something to prove.
In an interview with Metro, the singer similarly explained that he would only consider retirement if he could no longer sing, saying he would not want to shortchange his audience.
Tom Jones recently faced another career setback
The latest health news comes after Jones revealed that he would no longer be part of The Voice UK coaching panel.
The singer had been an on-and-off coach on the ITV singing competition since its launch in 2012, becoming a familiar face to viewers over the years.
He shared the news on Instagram last month, amid speculation about his future on the programme, after ITV decided not to bring him back for the 2027 series.
The announcement marked another change for the veteran performer, who has remained a prominent figure in music and television throughout his career.
However, his touring schedule has continued to take him before audiences internationally, with the Come Gather Round tour bringing him to venues across the United States.
Tom Jones issues latest health update
The BBC has now reported that Jones postponed his Los Angeles and San Diego concerts after being struck by what he described as “a bad case of the flu”.
In his Instagram statement, the singer said the illness had taken him by surprise after his recent run of performances.
The BBC reported that the 86-year-old had made the decision following his doctor’s advice, with both concerts rescheduled for early November.
Jones reiterated his apology to fans, writing that he was “truly sorry” for the inconvenience and looked forward to seeing audiences at the rearranged shows.
The update has prompted renewed concern for the singer, although he has not announced any further cancellations in the information provided.
For now, fans will be hoping that the postponements give the music legend the time he needs to recover before returning to the stage.
