Penny Lancaster, wife of rock singer Rod Stewart, has shared an update on his health following a recent heart operation. Stewart, 81, underwent a "routine coronary stent procedure" last month, which led to the cancellation of the remaining dates of his 2026 tour and a four-week recovery period.
Lancaster expressed optimism about her husband's recovery, telling the Press Association that Stewart will "come back stronger than ever" and that he "feels like he's got a new lease of life." She noted the demanding nature of his performances, explaining that he "runs around for nearly two hours with four different costume changes because he's sweating through everything," which contributed to the need for him to step back from touring.
Stewart's team confirmed the procedure via his Instagram account, stating that doctors were "pleased with his recovery" and that he was "doing very well and has returned to his normal daily activities." However, on medical advice, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before resuming his performances. Details regarding the affected tour dates were to be communicated by promoters and venues.
Stewart himself posted a message expressing gratitude to the medical staff and his disappointment at missing the shows. "I'm deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon," he wrote.
This is not the first health setback Stewart has experienced this year. He previously cancelled a gig in Cincinnati due to an "unforeseen but minor medical procedure." In June, he pulled out of a concert in California citing a respiratory infection that had developed into laryngitis. Around the same time, he used an oxygen tank on stage during a concert in Utah, which organizers suggested might have been due to the altitude. He also postponed shows in Colorado in June, requiring vocal rest.
Stewart also faced public scrutiny earlier this year after attending Scotland's World Cup match shortly after cancelling a show due to ill health. He later addressed the situation, admitting it was "not a good look" but explained he had promised his sons he would take them to a World Cup, and he did not want to let them down.