According to Variety, Neil Diamond has announced that he’ll be immediately retiring from touring due to being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The decision came on the advice of Diamond’s doctor, and Variety says that the next batch of dates on his ongoing 50th Anniversary Tour in Australia and New Zealand have been canceled. In a statement, Diamond said that he intends to “remain active in writing, recording, and other projects for a long time to come,” and he also thanked his fans for supporting him over the years.
Variety notes that Diamond’s tour started back in April and included over 50 dates across North America and Europe. His last show was in London on October 19, with the Australia and New Zealand run originally set to begin in March. You can read his full statement below.
It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored 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 go 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.