Deep Purple cancels remaining 2026 European tour dates after Ian Gillan's hospitalization
The rock band paused all shows in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the U.K. following urgent medical treatment for the 81-year-old singer.
By Carolina Wood ·
Deep Purple has postponed all remaining 2026 European concert dates. The band made the announcement after singer Ian Gillan shared details about his recent hospitalization in Leipzig.
Gillan, who turned 81 over the summer, explained that he faced a medical problem requiring urgent attention. He stated that his medical team and management advised him to stop performing due to serious risks. "I was hoping that I would get the all-clear to hang on until the end of the tour, but there are very serious risks involved in me doing so," Gillan wrote on the band's social media.
The band had previously announced the postponement of two shows in Germany due to an unspecified medical emergency. That initial news came just days before the decision to cancel the entire European and U.K. leg. The tour was originally scheduled to include more than a dozen concerts across four countries.
The band confirmed that all tickets purchased for the postponed shows will remain valid for future rescheduled dates. Gillan expressed gratitude for fan support during his recovery. "Thank you for all the good wishes and support over the last few days..it means the world," he said.
Deep Purple still has show dates scheduled for December 2026 in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Mexico. The band has not yet revealed whether those international performances will proceed as planned.
The cancellation follows a standard protocol for major tours when a lead performer requires rest. The band's management handled the logistical changes for fans in the affected regions.
