Country singer Orville Peck, 38, has disclosed that a suicide attempt was the reason behind the postponement of his 2023 "Bronco Tour." Peck revealed in a recent interview with Rolling Stone that the incident occurred after a period of addiction and a spiral of mental health struggles. "I was a bad addict, a coping alcoholic," Peck stated, "And I had this spiral moment, where I went back to my hotel and tried to take my life."
The South African-born musician described the period, which also included a breakup and a stint in rehab, as "one of the worst places" he has ever been. He characterized the suicide attempt as a "big turning point" that led to significant realizations. This challenging time has heavily influenced his forthcoming album, "Mule," scheduled for release on September 18.
Peck announced the album's release date on Instagram, stating that "Mule - my fourth studio album arrives 9/18/2026." He further explained that the record is "a chronological account of the year I lost my way." The first single from the album, "Too Little, Too Late," is available on all platforms.
During his time in rehab, Peck admitted he initially resisted the process, believing he was unique and did not have a problem. "I thought it was a waste of time, that I’m unique and didn’t have a problem," he told Rolling Stone. This perspective led him to write the song "Rehab Blues" during his stay.
In the interview, Peck emphasized his commitment to honesty and vulnerability in his storytelling. "What I was really trying to capture in terms of the concept, there was no way to gloss over or sugarcoat it," he said about the album's content.
"Mule" follows Peck's third album, "Stampede," released in August 2024. The artist is slated to perform at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on September 18, the same day "Mule" is released. This concert marks the beginning of his "Man Turned Mule Tour." Information regarding tickets for the tour was made available through his website.
Peck also made his Broadway debut in the summer of 2025, starring in "Cabaret." He described the experience to People magazine as "having the best time of my life."