Toby Keith’s fans came out in support of the country music star on Sunday after he shared some sad news. Keith, 60, was diagnosed with stomach cancer last year. Although the “Beer For My Horses” singer didn’t specify the status of his upcoming tour dates in his announcement, his publicity Elaine Schock told The Tennessean Keith will not be performing “for now.”
“Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” Keith wrote on social media Sunday. “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
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Keith’s next concert was scheduled for June 17 at Ribfest in Wheaton, Illinois. He was also scheduled to perform the following day at the B-93 Birthday Bash in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He planned to perform at the Ohio State Fair on July 28, but fair officials already confirmed he will not be there. Fans who bought tickets from Ticketmaster will automatically receive a refund.
‘Hang in there’
In the months after his diagnosis, Keith did not shy from the spotlight. In November 2021, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and attended the ceremony. He also played at the Heroes Honor Festival in Daytona, Florida last month.
‘Wishing my big buddy a speedy recovery’
Scroll on to see how fans and the rest of the country music world responded to Keith’s diagnosis.
‘Keep your incredible warrior spirit’
“My heart, soul & prayers are always with you & your family. My friend keep your incredible warrior spirit,” Bret Michaels tweeted.
‘Thinking of you brother’
“Praying for and thinking of you brother,” Scott Stevens wrote on Instagram.
‘Speedy recovery & prayers’
“Prayers up for ya Big Dog,” Lance Carpenter wrote on Keith’s Instagram page.
‘Hope you get healthy and stay strong’
Keith’s statement inspired many fans to share their own experiences with cancer. One fan wrote about their father surviving a four-year battle with stomach cancer, adding, “Huge prayers coming your way. My family and I know all too well what you’re going through.”
