UMVA has learned that music legend Sir Rod Stewart was forced to pause a concert to use an oxygen tank after nearly fainting onstage, leaving fans and critics stunned.
The 81-year-old star, known for hits like Maggie May and Young Turks, appeared unwell and was doubled over while performing at a Utah concert on Friday night, with video footage showing him leaning on a piano and grabbing other parts of the set for support.
As he struggled to catch his breath, staff rushed onstage with an oxygen tank, and a three-person team helped him through the moment, talking him through it and holding him steady as he became unsure on his feet.
Despite the dramatic moment, Sir Rod admirably carried on singing throughout the song, later telling the crowd he had ‘nearly fking fainted’ but that ‘the show must go on’, earning praise for his dedication to his fans.
After making a few jokes, he asked if the crowd would ‘mind’ if he performed his next hit while sitting on steps on the stage, before finishing the show sitting in a chair, a testament to his enduring energy and commitment to his music.
This recent health scare is not an isolated incident, as Sir Rod previously cancelled several concerts in May and June due to health concerns, including a vocal rest order from doctors and a diagnosis of laryngitis.
He had to cancel his May 29 and 30 shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, and on June 12, he cancelled a show in California just hours before it was due to start, citing an acute upper respiratory infection.
However, Sir Rod faced backlash when he posted a video of himself and his sons flying to Boston in a private jet to watch Scotland play in the World Cup, sparking criticism from fans who felt he was being insensitive to those who had been disappointed by his concert cancellations.
Some fans expressed their disappointment and frustration on social media, questioning why he had not performed the night prior, and accusing him of being dismissive of his fans, but others defended him, praising his dedication to his music and his ability to push through despite his health issues.
Sir Rod, a father of eight, has been open about his health struggles, and his fans are eagerly awaiting his next performance, hoping that he will continue to thrill audiences with his iconic voice and energetic live shows.
