Jeff Lynne Issues First Statement After ELO Show Cancellation

Jeff Lynne, the legendary frontman of Electric Light Orchestra, has shared a heartfelt message after canceling what was meant to be the band’s final performance. The 77-year-old was scheduled to close out Jeff Lynne’s ELO farewell tour at London’s BST Hyde Park on July 13, but the show was called off the day before due to health issues.

Lynne also had to cancel the tour’s penultimate concert on July 10. A statement at the time read:

“Unfortunately, due to illness, tonight’s scheduled performance of Jeff Lynne’s ELO at the Co-Op Live will not be going ahead. Jeff is devastated he cannot perform this evening. More information will become available as soon as possible.”

A Difficult but Necessary Decision

The Hyde Park show was intended to be a historic farewell for ELO. But Lynne’s health forced a last-minute change. “Jeff Lynne is heartbroken to report that he will not be able to perform at tomorrow’s BST Hyde Park show,” said an official statement. “Jeff has been battling a systemic infection and is currently in the care of a team of doctors who have advised him that performing is simply not possible at this time nor will he be able to reschedule.”

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Though fans are understandably disappointed, Lynne’s health is the priority.

“The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today — and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time.”

ELO’s farewell tour began in August 2024 and featured classic hits like “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Livin’ Thing.” The band’s final album, Zoom, was released in 2001, with a revival in 2014 under the name Jeff Lynne’s ELO.