Elvis Costello Ends European Tour Early to Recover From Cancer Surgery

Singer Elvis Costello, 63, known for hits such as “She,” “Alison” and “Pump It Up,” canceled the last six shows in his European tour on Friday to recover from cancer surgery.

In an announcement on his website, Costello shared that his specialist told him he had never seen “such a small but very aggressive cancerous malignancy” that could be taken care of with one surgery.

Costello added that recovery time for his surgery ranges from three to four weeks, but it was impossible to know how his recovery would go since he travels and performs a lot. After beginning the tour, Costello realized he needed more time to recover than initially expected.

“The spirit has been more than willing but I have to now accept that it is going to take longer than I would have wished for me to recover my full strength,” he said.

Costello said he plans on performing as soon as possible, and teased a new record that may be released in October.

Fans supported Costello and his decision on Twitter.

Elvis Costello, you were the soundtrack of my teens, and I want you to be the soundtrack of my old age. Put your feet up, have that rest, then come back as kick ass as before please!

https://t.co/UnTydu5vQJ

— Tracy Chevalier (@Tracy_Chevalier) July 6, 2018

Anyone who has seen Elvis Costello play will know he puts a huge amount of energy into his live shows, so it’s understandable that he would cancel a few gigs to focus on recovering from cancer surgery. He’s one of my musical heroes and I wish him well.

— Billy Bragg (@billybragg) July 6, 2018

Thoughts with Elvis Costello. My ultimate songwriting hero. ❤️

— Josh McClorey (@Josh_McClorey) July 6, 2018

Wishing the one and only @ElvisCostello a speedy recovery after being forced to cancel the last dates of his European tour due to medical grounds. Glad the tireless performer gave in to doctor’s orders to rest and recuperate and can’t wait for him to be back on the road.

— Jim Bessman (@JimBessman) July 6, 2018