Neil Diamond Cancels 2018 Australian Tour, Retires From Touring Altogether

January 23, 2018

Singer-songwriter Neil Diamond has cancelled his 2018 Australian tour and has retired from touring altogether, after recently being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

A statement released by Diamond’s management reads:

“The onset of the disease has made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing, recording and development of new projects. Based on his doctors’ advice, the third leg of Diamond’s 50th Anniversary tour, set to land in Australia and New Zealand this March, has been cancelled.”

Meanwhile, Diamond has apologised to fans, saying, “It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honoured to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years. My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.

“I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come.

“My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”

The Australian leg of Diamond’s 50th Anniversary tour was scheduled to hit huge venues in Townsville, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Bendigo, Melbourne, Hunter Valley and Adelaide between March and April, but refunds are now being processed.