Rod Stewart Cancels Las Vegas Residency Finale Due to Illness, Reschedules Encore in 2025

Rod Stewart has announced the cancellation of his 200th and final Las Vegas residency show due to illness, prompting him to reschedule his grand finale to 2025.

Legendary British rocker Rod Stewart has canceled the final show of his 13-year Las Vegas residency, which was scheduled to take place on August 7, 2023. The decision comes as a result of Stewart's battle with strep throat, leaving him unable to perform at the iconic Caesars Palace.

In a statement posted on social media, Stewart expressed his deep regret for the cancellation, saying, "I'm desperately sorry to miss this 200th show celebration. Most people can work with strep throat but obviously not me. I'm absolutely gutted. I've been looking forward to this concert for so long."

Rod Stewart Cancels Las Vegas Residency Finale Due to Illness, Reschedules Encore in 2025

Despite the setback, Stewart assured fans that they would have an opportunity to see him again in Las Vegas in the future. He announced that he will be returning to the city for "The Encore Shows" in 2025, with dates scheduled for March 12-22 and May 29-June 8. Tickets for these shows go on sale on Monday at 10am PT.

Stewart's announcement comes on the heels of his previous declaration that he has no fear of turning 80. In an interview with the US Sun, he said, "I'm aware my days are numbered, but I've got no fear. We have all got to pass on at some point, so we are all in the same basket."

Rod Stewart Cancels Las Vegas Residency Finale Due to Illness, Reschedules Encore in 2025

While Stewart acknowledges his mortality, he remains determined to enjoy his remaining years to the fullest. "I am going to be enjoying myself for these last few years as much as I can," he said. "I say few — probably another 15. I can do that easy, mate, easy."

To ensure his continued health, Stewart has adopted a more cautious approach to his lifestyle. "I'm not like I was in the '70s and '80s, and I can't stay up all night, get drunk and go mad and still have a voice just like that," he explained. "Nowadays I have to protect my voice before and after every show."

Rod Stewart Cancels Las Vegas Residency Finale Due to Illness, Reschedules Encore in 2025

Stewart's commitment to his health is evident in his emphasis on water consumption and the avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption. However, he maintains that he still enjoys the occasional indulgence with his entourage of musicians. "We go mad after every show," he said. "There are 13 of us, six women, really great musicians, and I make them drink. We absolutely love it."

Despite his age and previous health battles, Stewart remains passionate about his music and performing. He told HELLO! magazine that he doesn't see himself "slowing down anytime soon." This determination is reflected in his upcoming tour, which will see him perform across North America and Europe later this year.

Rod Stewart Cancels Las Vegas Residency Finale Due to Illness, Reschedules Encore in 2025

Stewart's decision to cancel his final Las Vegas residency show may be a temporary setback, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of health and longevity. While he may not be able to give his fans the 200th show celebration they were expecting, he has promised to return in 2025 for an even grander finale.