Janet Jackson And Usher Speak Out After ‘Lovers And Friends’ Festival Abruptly Canceled: ‘We Are Heartbroken’
Headline performers are speaking out after the highly-anticipated 'Lovers & Friends' Festival in Las Vegas was canceled just hours before showtime.
According to festival organizers, the show — which returned to Sin City for the 3rd year — was cut last minute on Saturday due to "expected dangerous weather" in the region.
"The National Weather Service has now issued a High Wind Warning, including dangerous 30-35 mph sustained winds with gusts potentially more than 60 mph," festival officials wrote in their announcement via Instagram.
"Following advice from the National Weather Service and in consultation with local public officials, we must make the safest decision for our fans, artists, and staff, and cancel tomorrow's Lovers & Friends Festival."
Performer Janet Jackson took to social media to confirm the cancellation and apologize for the major inconvenience. "We are heartbroken," the singer wrote in her post via Twitter, now known as X.
We are heartbroken we won’t be able to see you tonight at Lovers & Friends due to the possibility of dangerous winds. We know that many of you traveled far and wide to be here. The show would have also marked our last before we shift gears to the summer leg of the tour. We trust… pic.twitter.com/QlXgZorHmN
— Janet Jackson (@JanetJackson) May 4, 2024
"We are heartbroken we won't be able to see you tonight at Lovers & Friends due to the possibility of dangerous winds. We know that many of you traveled far and wide to be here," Jackson, 57, began. "We trust in God's plan and find light in knowing we'll be together again soon. We love you and are so grateful for you."
R&B crooner Usher also shared his dismay, letting fans know that he was "just as disappointed as you are" but acknowledged the importance to follow city officials orders and National Weather Service.
"Know that I am always working on something to express my heartfelt gratitude for each and every one of you who continue to support me. I'll see you soon, " the 45-year-old explained.
Kelly Rowland also spoke out on Instagram about the last-minute cancellation.
"I am so gutted that Lovers & Friends is cancelled," she wrote on Instagram alongside pictures of her posing with backup dancers. "Apologies to all who came early. And thank you to ALL who supported!'
Despite some headliners sharing their apologies for the upset, fans weren't pleased with the outcome of the show. "So are y'all gonna refund our flights and hotels?" one instagram user asked. "I'm in Vegas and the only thing being blown away is my bank account," another wrote.
"Came back just to say THAT WIND WAS NOT WORTH CANCELING THAT WHOLE ASS FESTIVAL," a skeptical user commented.
The festival featured top artist from the early 90's through the 2000's including Brandy, Monica, Eve, Dru Hill, Lumidee, Nina Sky, Blaque, and so much more. Festival officials described the decision to cancel as "heartbreaking."
