'80s Glam Metal Icon's Health Issue Gets Clarity After Tour Cancellation
Chris Holmes, W.A.S.P.'s former member, shed light on the reason behind the unexpected changes in his highly anticipated solo tour.
The iconic guitarist, widely known as the glam metal band's ex-frontman, recently made headlines after an announcement regarding the cancellation of his United Kingdom and Scandinavia concerts.
Originally scheduled this coming May, The Abyss, a live music club located in Gothenburg, Sweden, announced that Holmes will no longer proceed with the forthcoming performance due to health issues.
"It is with a Heavy heart that we have received news that Chris Holmes has cancelled his appearance at The Abyss. All tickets will be refunded through Biletto," the message reads as posted on their official Facebook page dated April 10.
In addition to this, The Abyss also included the official statement from the musician and his wife, Catherine Holmes, noting that they are prioritizing Chris Holmes' health following the recent health scare.
Moreover, the wife, who also serves as the musician's manager, promised fans that they will be kept updated on any developments.
"Out of respect for our fans and promoters, we feel compelled to explain why we are obliged to cancel our UK and Scandinavia tour scheduled for May. All shows taking place after July remain unaffected. Due to health issues that require immediate attention, we must unfortunately cancel the May tour. We will keep you updated as soon as we have more information. We would like to thank each and every one of you for your understanding and we ask that you please accept our apologies, as mentioned in the post.
Over a week since the unexpected news was announced, Catherine Holmes took to Instagram to clarify the issues surrounding the former W.A.S.P. member's tour cancellation.
She began her lengthy statement by thanking fans for their patience. Moreover, she pointed out that celebrities are human too, with real lives, real bodies and real minor health issues like everyone else.
Unfortunately, social media often amplifies their personal issues beyond their real scale.
As she expressed her gratitude to those who reached out with kindness toward the 67-year-old glam metal icon, she stepped in to set things straight to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.
"Now, let me be clear. The message that ended up online was for promoters. The decision to postpone the May tour was mine, as his wife and as his manager. Nothing mysterious, nothing dramatic, simply because at his age, some small things - like prostate issues (many men know exactly what I mean) - are better handled right away and I wanted this small issue fixed now so it doesn't interfere with future projects and shows. A misunderstanding happened. It's life. We all make mistakes," the caption reads.
Moreover, Catherine Holmes clarified that Chris Holmes' condition is not serious and he is currently recovering as he prepares for his return.
"So, Chris has a minor prostate issue, nothing that threatens his projects, his tours or his fire. It's already being taken care of and he'll be back on his feet and on stage soon. To those who support Chris with heart and respect, we send that love right back to you.
We love you all," she concluded her post, along with a photo of the iconic musician on stage.
Apart from the minor prostate issue, the "Let It Roar" hitmaker was diagnosed with throat and neck cancer in February 2022.
After weeks of intensive radiation therapy and rest, Chris Holmes was declared cancer-free in late 2022 and was able to return to performing, including an appearance on the Monsters of Rock Cruise.
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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 6:00 AM.