Jimmy Buffett canceled shows due to unspecified health issues months before his death at 76
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jimmy Buffett was reportedly facing health complications that led him to call off or delay several shows in the months leading up to his death.
The 'Margaritaville' singer, who breathed his last at the age of 76 on Friday, August 1, was hospitalized a couple of times in 2022, People reports.
Buffett announced on his website in September last year that he “needed to refrain from touring for the rest of the year,” citing “health issues and brief hospitalization," prompting him to cancel his shows in Salt Lake City and Nampa, Idaho, in October.
He also and postponed shows in Las Vegas to March 2023. “On doctor’s orders, he must take this time to recuperate and heal,” the announcement added at the time.
The singer was hospitalized again after a few months
Buffett, who was one of the world's richest musicians, shared a post on Twitter, stating that he was admitted to the hospital again following a check-up in Boston.
He also said that he would have to reschedule an upcoming show in Charleston, South Carolina.
"I had a sudden change of plans this week that affected us all. Two days ago, I was just back from a trip to the Bahamas, thawing out from the California 'winter tour,' and chomping at the bit to get to Charleston," he wrote.
"I had to stop in Boston for a check-up but wound up back in the hospital to address some issues that needed immediate attention," he added at the time.
He did not detail what the health issue was, but noted, "Growing old is not for sissies, I promise you.”
He then informed his fans that when he was “well enough to perform” he would be back on stage.
The musician, with a net worth of $1 billion concluded his message thanking his fans for their thoughts and well wishes.
Jimmy Buffett updated his fans about his road to recovery
Buffett updated fans a few days later to let them know that he was in the process of recovering by documenting a fishing trip with friends.
He said he would also do some paddling and sailing to “get myself back in good shape."
Jimmy Buffet was a great entertainer who helped us hear the music of life. He’ll be sorely missed, and I hope he‘s found that lost shaker of salt. 🎶 🏝️ pic.twitter.com/eQqFQVGpqn
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) September 2, 2023
He also added that once he started to feel better, he would commence his live performances.
“I think playing is as therapeutic for me as it is for fans to listen and sing along," he wrote at the time.
"Looking forward to announcing a new date for Charleston as well as some new shows! Fins up!"
RIP Jimmy Buffet. The coolest man on earth
— Earl Manly (@BigDaddyGirth) September 2, 2023
pic.twitter.com/H1MYXJFHKX
Buffett kept his word and made a surprise performance in July during his friend and longtime member of Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band Mac McAnally’s gig at a Rhode Island waterfront bar.
McAnally brought Buffett on the stage during his performance of 'It’s Five O'Clock Somewhere,' during which the spectators applauded as they sang the song.
“Well, it is good to see an audience, let me tell you that,” Buffett told the crowd in what would be one of his last performances.
His social media channels and website announced on Friday night that he had “passed away peacefully on the night of September 1 surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs."