Rock legends Deep Purple have postponed the remainder of their 2026 tour dates following a medical emergency involving lead singer Ian Gillan.
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Gillan, 81, experienced health complications over the weekend and required hospitalization ahead of the band's scheduled performance in Leipzig, Germany, on October 31.
The band subsequently canceled the Leipzig concert and their following show in Hamburg on November 1.
Deep Purple Singer Ian Gillan Hospitalized Following Medical Emergency
Details surrounding Gillan's medical condition remain unclear, with the singer choosing not to publicly disclose the nature of his health complications.
However, Gillan has since addressed the situation in a statement shared on social media, thanking fans for their support.
"Dear friends, Thank you for all the good wishes and support over the last few days... it means the world," he wrote. "I had a medical problem whilst in Leipzig which required urgent attention at the hospital."
Gillan explained that he initially hoped to continue performing until the end of the tour but ultimately decided against it due to the potential health risks.
"I was hoping that I would get the all-clear to hang on until the end of the tour, but there are very serious risks involved in me doing so."
Following discussions with his medical team and management, Gillan confirmed that Deep Purple would postpone their remaining 2026 performances.
He continued, "I'm very sorry about any inconvenience this may cause, but it's in the best interest all round."
Rock Legends Cancel Remaining Tour Dates Across Europe and South America
The decision affects several upcoming performances, including four additional shows in Germany and scheduled concerts in the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom throughout November.
Deep Purple had also planned a series of December performances in South America, with dates in Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Mexico.
Gillan first joined Deep Purple in 1969 before leaving the group in 1973.
After pursuing various solo projects, he briefly joined Black Sabbath in 1983 before returning to Deep Purple for the band's reunion in 1984.
He departed again in 1989 but rejoined in 1992 and has remained the group's lead vocalist ever since.
Despite their decades-long career, Deep Purple have continued releasing new music and touring internationally.
In July 2026, the band released their 24th studio album, Splat!, which enjoyed chart success across several countries.
The record reached No. 1 on Germany's Rock & Metal Albums chart and Sweden's Hard Rock Albums chart.
It also topped the Independent Albums and Rock & Metal Albums charts in the United Kingdom.
