Rod Stewart electrified Glastonbury Festival with a nostalgic, star-studded performance, but fans fear it could be the last time they see the music icon on stage.
Now 80, Stewart took the stage on June 29 with a lineup of surprise guests including Ronnie Wood, Lulu and Mick Hucknall, performing throwback hits that reminded fans why he’s been beloved for six decades. The concert, however, was fueled by something deeper than just entertainment.
Sources close to the rocker say Stewart has been increasingly aware of his mortality and is using the remaining shows to thank fans before it’s too late. His team reportedly considers this performance a form of farewell, especially after recent health scares and canceled shows.
Health setbacks force major career decisions
In recent years, Stewart has quietly battled two forms of cancer. He underwent surgery for thyroid cancer in 2000 and again in 2016 for prostate cancer. Although he beat both diagnoses, insiders say the impact on his stamina has been clear during his latest tour.
Earlier this year, Stewart canceled four shows and delayed two others due to undisclosed health issues. Not long after, he declared this would be the last time he commits to a global tour, citing the toll on his voice and body.
He told concertgoers he still loves performing but is prioritizing his health and family. That confession only added emotional weight to his Glastonbury set, where fans cheered, cried and sang along to every word of “Maggie May” and “Forever Young.”
Rod reunites with The Faces, plans final album
One of the biggest surprises of the night was the appearance of Ronnie Wood, his former bandmate from The Faces. They played “Stay With Me” to thunderous applause, followed by a soulful duet with Mick Hucknall on “If You Don’t Know Me by Now.”
Stewart is now planning to record one final album with The Faces. A music executive familiar with the project said the record will be his “parting gift” to fans who have supported him since the 1960s.
Lulu, who once dated Stewart and collaborated with him in the early years, also appeared during the show. Her presence highlighted the night’s heavy dose of sentimentality, with many calling it one of the most moving sets of the festival.
Despite his age and medical history, Stewart proved he still has the energy to command a stage. But as he waved goodbye, fans couldn’t help but wonder if that wave meant goodbye for good.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.