Neil Diamond Cancels Shows, Retires From Touring After Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Neil Diamond has revealed that he's canceling his upcoming shows and officially hanging up his touring boots after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Neil Diamond Cancels Shows And Announces Retirement From Touring
In a statement posted on his website, the legendary singer announced that as recommended by his doctor, the upcoming third leg of his 50th-anniversary tour that was scheduled to take place across Australia and New Zealand in March has been canceled. Fans who already bought tickets will receive a full refund for their purchase.
The "Sweet Caroline" singer, who turns 77 on Wednesday, Jan. 24, also announced his retirement from live shows in the wake of his recent diagnosis.
"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring," Diamond said in the statement. "I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years. My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows."
The singer's last live performance was a sing-along of "Sweet Caroline" on Fox's New Year's Eve With Steve Harvey: Live From Times Square on Dec. 31, 2017.
Singer To Continue Making Music
Diamond's diagnosis of the disease will draw the curtains on his five-decade-long career on stage. However, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer does not intend to stop making music anytime soon. The musician noted that he will continue to write songs, record music, and actively pursue other projects for a long time.
Diamond will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Recording Academy at the upcoming Grammy Awards on Sunday, Jan. 28, for his achievements in music. He will receive the honor along with two other legends in the world of music, Tina Turner and Queen.
50th-Anniversary Tour
The music icon's 50th-anniversary tour kicked off in April last year. After completing more than 50 dates across the United States and Europe, Diamond only took a monthlong break between both legs of the tour and wrapped up the tour in London on Oct. 19.
The upcoming Australia and New Zealand leg of the tour was announced in November last year. It was supposed to kick off on March 15 in Christchurch, New Zealand.
The third leg of Diamond's 50th-anniversary tour included 11 dates at a number of stadiums, arenas, and winery shows across the Australian continent.
