Alan Jackson was forced to hit pause on his Last Call: One More For The Road Tour. The country legend was scheduled to wrap up his national run in Atlantic City (Oct. 7) and Pittsburgh (Oct. 8) this coming weekend, but he postponed both shows due to “health issues.”
The PPG Paints Arena in Pennsylvania and the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in New Jersey took to social media Wednesday night to share the unfortunate news. The country legend confirmed on his official website that the sudden cancellations are related to his ongoing battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Charcot-Marie-Tooth is an inherited neurological condition that causes nerve damage. The non-fatal disease usually affects the feet and legs first. However, it can eventually move to the hands and arms. People diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth may experience loss of sensation and muscle twitching or have difficulty walking.
Jackson addressed his fans to apologize for the last minute change and to mention his current health condition.
“I was hoping I could be there; I hate to disappoint my fans,” the Country Music Hall of Famer said. “I did everything I could to play this show right now,” he added.
The “Chattahoochee” singer’s team advised fans to hold on to their tickets, as they will be honored at the rescheduled shows in 2023. Organizers have yet to solidify new dates, but confirmed concertgoers would receive additional information from your ticket provider via Email.
The platinum-selling artist opened up about fighting Charcot-Marie-Tooth last year during an intimate interview with “Today” show host Jenna Bush Hager. She stated that she inherited the condition from her father and was diagnosed over a decade ago. The icon revealed that acting has become a challenge.
“There is no cure for this, but it has been affecting me for years. And it is becoming more and more evident. And I know I’m stumbling on stage,” she told the publication. “Now I have trouble keeping my balance, even in front of the microphone, so I feel very uncomfortable.”
At the time, the 63-year-old vocalist said he wouldn’t be walking away from the spotlight any time soon. The victory lap was Jackson’s first start since his rare condition was revealed. Jackson said the country legends who have paved the way before him have inspired him to keep going.
“I’ve always admired my heroes like George Jones, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride, who played whatever they wanted, while they could,” the hitmaker shared. “I’ve always thought I’d like to do that, and I’d like to as long as my health allows. I will try to do everything I can, but if I am on my way, come see me, ”he added.
The country music singer will appear at CMT’s upcoming Artist of the Year ceremony, where he will be honored with the Artist of a Lifetime award.
“I think I’ve made more videos than almost anyone, and I know how important they have been in bringing my songs to life for the fans, so thank you, CMT, for all the years and for this sweet honor,” he said. he said she said in a statement. “I am very proud.”
CMT’s 2022 Artist of the Year celebration will premiere at 9p/8c on Friday, October 14 on CMT.