Penny Lancaster Shares Health Update on Rod Stewart After Heart Procedure

Penny Lancaster has shared that her husband, Sir Rod Stewart, had an unknown underlying heart issue prior to doctors discovering a blockage that led to a coronary stent procedure this past summer. Lancaster, 55, stated that the 81-year-old rocker is now doing well and has resumed activities at the gym, though his family and medical team are monitoring him closely.

Stewart was compelled to cancel the remainder of his U.S. tour last month following the heart procedure and was advised to take four weeks off from performing. Lancaster discussed the events leading up to the operation on Vanessa Feltz's YouTube show, "At Home With Vanessa," explaining that the couple was unaware of any pre-existing heart condition.

She recounted two incidents where Stewart experienced an upper respiratory infection, followed by a concert at a high altitude. "What we didn't know was there was an underlying heart issue," Lancaster said.

Following medical checks, a slight blockage was detected, necessitating the stent procedure. Lancaster described Stewart as exceptionally fit for his age, noting, "He's fit for someone my age in their 50s." She added, "Fortunately it was at the right time, at the right place and they detected a slight blockage which needed a stent."

Stewart had announced the procedure and his recovery period in August, which led to the cancellation of the remaining dates of his 2026 U.S. and Mexico tour, including several shows in Las Vegas. At the time, he expressed feeling better but was disappointed to miss the performances.

Stewart had experienced a series of health issues earlier in the year, including a sinus infection in May and a respiratory infection causing laryngitis in June, which led to the cancellation of other shows. During a performance in Utah in June, he also mentioned to the audience that he had nearly fainted and used an oxygen tank before continuing the show seated.

Lancaster detailed the physical demands of Stewart's live performances, which involve energetic movement, frequent costume changes, and rapid returns to the stage. She described his pre-show routine as similar to a boxer's warm-up, including time on a cycling machine and vocal exercises. "He comes out the dressing room and it's that walk down the corridor to his stage. And once he gets on stage, he doesn't just walk on, he runs on," she said.

Due to the intensity of his performances, doctors recommended a four-week recovery period away from touring to ensure he was fit to return. Lancaster also noted that Stewart has been eager to resume normal activities, stating he is "already back in the gym." However, she confirmed that a team, including herself, his brother, and his trainer, is overseeing his recovery to ensure he adheres to medical advice. "We're not letting him get away with it. He has to do as he's told," she added.