gg2
Bret Michaels news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Bret Michaels canceled all remaining 2026 tour dates after doctors ordered rest. Fans with tickets face cancellations and replacements like John Waite.
Background
Bret Michaels, the 63-year-old Poison frontman, underwent kidney stone surgery in June and had a ureteral stent placed. He performed through intense pain and was hospitalized after a July 18 concert in Spokane, Washington. After attempting a comeback show on August 21 in Sugar Hill, Georgia, doctors determined he needed more recovery time, leading to the cancellation of all remaining 2026 dates.
How it unfolded
- Jun 2026Michaels underwent surgery to remove a kidney stone and have a ureteral stent placed.
- Jul 18, 2026Michaels was hospitalized following a concert in Spokane, Washington, and stayed off the road.
- Aug 21, 2026Michaels attempted a comeback show at The Bowl at Sugar Hill, Georgia, but doctors and paramedics determined he needed more rest immediately after.
- Aug 22, 2026Michaels Entertainment Group announced on social media that Michaels would take several months off, canceling all remaining 2026 tour dates.
- Aug 24, 2026Champlain Valley Fair announced John Waite would replace Michaels for its September 6 concert.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Michaels' doctors said, 'We will be pulling Bret off the road for the time being' to allow for rest and recovery.
- Support
- Michaels' team expressed 'deepest apologies' to fans and said he 'will come back better than ever.'