Jeff Lynne has shared he was “absolutely gutted” to have had to cancel his final two Electric Light Orchestra shows.
Lynne, 77, issued a statement to fans earlier today (July 18), a week after having to cancel the second leg of his Co-Op Live Arena show in Manchester. His performance at BST Hyde Park was cancelled just a few days later, with refunds issued for both shows on the Over and Out tour. In a post from the official Jeff Lynne ELO social media accounts, a statement signed off by Lynne has confirmed he is now recuperating. The Evil Woman and Mr. Blue Sky hitmaker has also thanked fans for their well-wishes, with some starting a petition to have Lynne knighted for services to music.
In a statement seen on X, Lynne writes: “I am now at home recuperating. I was absolutely gutted to have to cancel the final two shows. I send my heartfelt thanks to all of the fans as well as my band and crew for all their support and love.”
Fans were relieved to hear Lynne is on the mend following the cancellation of his Co-Op Live Arena show and BST Hyde Park performance. In a statement issued by BST Hyde Park last week, the organisation confirmed Lynne was unable to perform and that the show would not be rescheduled.
The statement reads: “Jeff Lynne is heartbroken to report that he will not be able to perform at tomorrow’s BST Hyde Park show. Jeff has been battling a systemic infection and is currently in the care of a team of doctors who have advised him that performing is simply not possible at this time nor will he be able to reschedule.
“The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today – and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time.”
Lynne had previously told audience members in Birmingham and Manchester that he had been involved in a taxi crash, and had broken his hand during the accident. The frontman was helped off stage at the end of his first night in Manchester, with a cancellation for the second performance coming just a short while before showtime.
Fans are now wishing Lynne the best in his recovery, and a few have suggested a performance at St Andrew’s, Birmingham City Football Club’s grounds, could be a fitting place for a final send-off.
One fan suggested: “One last gig @BCFC you know it makes sense.” Another wrote: “Bless you, Jeff. Hope you’re recuperating goes well. Your many fans wish you nothing but good health and happiness.”
A third shared: “I missed you Jeff, life long fan though it would have been the first time to see you live. Damn I’m sad about it, but I wish you all the love in the world.”
It comes as fans continue signing a petition to have Lynne knighted. A post to Change.org has gathered over 1,700 signatures at time of writing. The Change.org post reads: “Jeff Lynne’s music transcends geographical and generational boundaries, bringing joy and inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
“His unique talent has not only enriched the lives of those who hear his music but also propelled the music industry forward with innovation and creativity. Granting Jeff Lynne a knighthood would be a fitting tribute to his immeasurable contributions to music and culture. It is a gesture that would honour both him and the music community at large.
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