Paula Abdul, 62, cancels tour due to serious health issues

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Paula Abdul has been forced to cancel her upcoming tour due to “some injuries” that will require surgery and an extended recovery period.

The 62-year-old pop icon was scheduled to perform in Alaska and North Dakota before resuming her month-long tour Straight Up! Tour to Canadabut on Thursday, September 5, she announced on Instagram that due to her injuries, she was canceling the tour.

“It is with an extremely heavy heart that I must share with you an update regarding my recent injury,” said the former American Idol the judge wrote in the caption.

In her statement, Abdul revealed that her medical team recommended she undergo a minor surgical procedure for one of her injuries, followed by a six-to-eight-week recovery period. Abdul admitted that the demands of a full tour would be too much for her current circumstances, saying, “I have been given targeted injections that will provide me with temporary relief, but the demands of a full tour are a whole other story.”

Fans were quick to offer their well-wishes in the comments, showing their love for the singer. “You just finished a 47-day tour, your body needs rest. I hope you take time for yourself, take care of yourself, and rest so you can heal,” one fan said. Another shared the same sentiment, saying, “I’m sorry… take care of yourself! We all need you in the long run. I love you!”

Abdul expressed sadness at disappointing fans who had been eagerly awaiting her performances and assured the audience that the setback was temporary, promising that she would return “stronger and better” once her recovery was complete.

For those affected by the cancellation, the “Opposites Attract” singer assured that refunds will be available at point of purchase. She ended the message by thanking fans for their understanding and patience during this difficult time, ending with, “With all my love and gratitude, XoP.”

Abdul has struggled with numerous health issues throughout her career, from broken bones and chronic back pain due to the demanding choreography to a more recent battle with osteoarthritis, which causes joint pain and stiffness.