Rod Stewart faces fan backlash after canceling concert due to illness, then traveling for football

Rock legend Rod Stewart has drawn criticism from fans after canceling a concert in California due to illness, only to be seen seemingly healthy and traveling the next day. The 81-year-old singer abruptly canceled his performance at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in San Diego just 40 minutes before he was scheduled to take the stage on Friday. Initially, organizers cited a sinus infection, later clarified by the star as laryngitis caused by an acute upper respiratory tract infection diagnosed by doctors. Stewart posted an apology on social media, expressing hope to reschedule the show, which was part of his farewell tour. However, his apology was quickly overshadowed when he posted a video on Saturday morning showing him boarding a private jet with his sons, Aidan and Alastair, bound for Boston to watch Scotland's match in the World Cup. In the video, Stewart stated, "Here we go, flying to Boston to watch the Scotland game at the World Cup." This post ignited fan backlash, with many questioning his reported illness. They observed him appearing energetic with a strong voice in the video, contrasting sharply with his inability to perform the previous day. Photos circulating online showed Stewart smiling in the stands, dressed in Scotland's colors. One widely shared image appeared to show two glasses of alcoholic beverages in front of him. A representative for Stewart defended the singer, asserting that his health condition was genuine and that he had received "a couple of doses of steroids and treatment." The representative explained that while Stewart was present at the venue, he had lost his voice, and by the time the steroids took effect, it was too late to proceed with the concert. This explanation did not appease disappointed fans, who took to social media to voice their frustration. One Instagram user commented, "Too sick to perform, but can fly across the country for football?" Another critic questioned the timing of the video's release, suggesting it seemed "almost intentional" and implied a lack of concern for the thousands of fans who were let down.

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Here we go, flying to Boston to watch the Scotland game at the World Cup.