Ian Gillan Issues First Message After Canceling All Deep Purple Shows, Reveals What’s Happening

Alex Reed
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Alex Reed
Alex is Rock Celebrities's most senior analyst, specializing in the commercial, legal, and financial aspects of the rock industry with over 15 years of experience. He...
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Deep Purple frontman Ian Gillan has shared an update on his health after the band canceled its remaining European shows, posting on Facebook.

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Gillan’s message came almost a week after Deep Purple announced the cancellation due to the vocalist’s illness. He provided details about his condition and his next steps.

“Dear friends, I had a procedure yesterday which was successful,” Gillan said. “I now have to rest, in order to make a complete recovery and ensure that I’m as fit as can be before getting back to work.”

The singer also thanked fans for their support during the disruption. “Thanks everybody for your patience and understanding. I really do appreciate it and apologize for all the inconvenience. Cheers, IG,” he added.

Gillan issued the message as part of his recovery from the illness that forced Deep Purple to cancel its European tour dates.

The cancellation affected multiple shows across Europe. Deep Purple pulled out of dates in Germany, the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom, including the final stop on the European leg on November 25 at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The band had been touring in support of its album Splat!, which came out on July 3, 2026. South America and Mexico tour dates scheduled for December remained in place.

Gillan has dealt with health complications for years, including challenges related to diabetes that have affected his eyesight. The frontman has become more open about the physical demands of performing at his age and the toll that these medical issues take on his ability to tour.

The procedure Gillan underwent marked a turning point in his recovery process. His focus now is on rest and rehabilitation to return to full fitness before resuming work with the band.

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