Deep Purple cancels tour dates as Ian Gillan, 81, hospitalised

Deep Purple has been forced to cancel two major tour dates after frontman Ian Gillan, 81, suffered a medical emergency and was rushed to hospital. According to TMZ, the band announced the sudden development on Instagram Saturday morning, confirming that Gillan remains hospitalised ^[1].

The cancellations affect performances scheduled for Saturday night at the QI Arena in Leipzig and Sunday evening at the Sporthalle in Hamburg. The New York Post reported that the group issued the statement “with great disappointment,” noting that tickets purchased for the shows will remain valid for rescheduled dates ^[2].

No specific details regarding the nature of Gillan’s condition have been disclosed. The Independent confirmed that the cause of his illness remains undisclosed, though a spokesperson for the band stated that Gillan remains in hospital ^[6]. The Mirror noted that fans have taken to social media to send their best wishes to the singer, who joined Deep Purple in 1969 ^[5].

The band’s message read: “This comes as a result of a medical emergency involving Ian Gillan, which has resulted in his current hospitalisation.” They acknowledged the short notice and promised to find a “suitable time” to reschedule the concerts ^[3].

The incident comes just two days after Deep Purple shared footage of the band performing in Oslo, with Gillan seen smiling and walking toward the stage. The band is currently on their SPLAT! World Tour, which is slated to continue through the end of December before concluding with a final concert in Poland in June 2027 ^[3].

Gillan had recently discussed his health, telling Uncut magazine that he was grappling with eyesight issues and that retirement was “not far off.” He clarified in June that his failing vision would not stop him singing, stating he would only stop when he no longer had the strength to perform ^[3].

The current lineup also includes bassist Roger Glover, 80, drummer Ian Paice, 78, keyboardist Don Airey, 78, and guitarist Simon McBride, 47. The band has been touring globally since 1968, with Paice being the only remaining original member ^[3].