Bret Michaels recently commented on his recent show cancellation in a statement shared on Instagram. The statement focused on maintaining a positive mindset during challenging times; however, the singer didn’t specify the troubles he’s been dealing with.
Michaels emphasized the importance of surrounding himself with supportive people and taking time to reset when needed.
“Always keep great memories and reminders around you – good for purpose, good for the soul,” he said. “On this Motivational Monday, I focus on companionship, friendship, and surrounding yourself with good people, and trying to keep so positive during adversity that it kicks negative’s ass.”
He reflected on his approach to life and work, noting that personal connections are as valuable as professional achievements. “After taking a few days to reset and listening to my body telling me to get it together, taking a bit of a roller coaster ride recently, the one thing that came through was a positive state of mind,” he continued. “Hope, faith, love – they work.”
Michaels further elaborated on his priorities. “From birth until now, it’s just as important for me to hang out with family and friends, race go karts or have a wiffleball contest on an old dirt baseball field. Things of this nature are just as important as putting together performances and great shows, I give 100% to everything I do and even enjoy the challenges.”
The cancellation came shortly after Rikki Rockett announced that Poison would be canceling tour plans for the upcoming year. However, Michaels’ statement suggests he is focusing on personal well-being during this period. Rockett said,“I’ll set the record straight as far as Poison touring: at this point in time, there is nothing on the books for a 2026 40th-anniversary tour.”
He added, “I said it months ago when we got presented a contract from Live Nation to go on tour next year. C.C., Bobby and I agreed. We thought it was great. We thought the money was great. We thought the lay of the land looked great. Then Bret looked at it and has not agreed to anything. So literally that is where we’re at.”
Bret Michaels’ latest show postponement, originally scheduled for November 15, has been rescheduled to May 16, 2026. It comes amid a series of health challenges for the Poison frontman.
Michaels has been dealing with significant health issues throughout 2025, primarily related to his Type 1 diabetes, which he has managed since childhood. According to American Songwriter, he experienced a dangerous health scare in late June when his blood sugar plummeted to a critically low level of 39. This occurred after he completed a meet-and-greet and performed an extended set.
The health crisis prompted Michaels to announce in September that he would perform only limited shows for the remainder of 2025. Blabbermouth reported that he specifically mentioned his diabetes needed a “tune-up” along with rest and recovery time.
These ongoing health concerns have cast doubt on Poison’s planned 40th-anniversary tour in 2026. The tour was intended to celebrate the band’s 1986 debut album “Look What the Cat Dragged In.” Drummer Rikki Rockett recently stated that it’s “probably” too late for the 2026 tour to happen. He explained that major tours require planning to begin by October of the preceding year.
Communication issues have further complicated matters. Metal Wani reported that Rockett revealed band communication has broken down. Michaels has not been responding to messages from band members about tour planning. Rockett indicated there is “frustration” rather than “hate” within the group, suggesting that Michaels may be focusing on his solo career plans instead.
