Shawn Mendes announced online he would be canceling the rest of his tour dates to take care of his mental health. Mendes postponed his tour for the same reasons, but will now be canceling the rest of his world tour that would have lasted through 2023. In a letter, he says “I started this tour excited to finally get back to playing live after a long break due to the pandemic, but the reality is I was not at all ready for how difficult touring would be after this time away.”
— Shawn Mendes (@ShawnMendes) July 27, 2022
Mendes noted, “After speaking with my team and working with an incredible group of health professionals, it has become more clear that I need to take the time I’ve never taken personally, to ground myself and come back stronger.” He says he wants to make his mental health his first priority but ensures his fans know he can’t wait to see his fans again on tour. “I know you all have been waiting so long to see these shows, and it breaks my heart to tell you this but I promise that I will be back as soon as I’ve taken the right time to heal.”
It’s actually so great seeing someone take their mental health seriously and making it just as much of a priority as physical health. I think it really sets a great example and teaches others that it’s ok to put yourself and your needs first. Take all the time you need
— AMBAH ???? (@ambah_42) July 27, 2022
Although most fans were supportive of Mendes, others noted a bit of frustration. One person said between this and Adele, who had to cancel some tours this past year, they did not feel comfortable getting tickets for concerts as they were afraid they would be canceled. ” I have no trust in artists putting on a scheduled tour anymore. People spend their entire savings on tickets, go through the rat race of finding tickets, make travel plans, don’t get refunds in a timely manner, etc. When are the FANS going to be made a priority to artists?” one person said.
Completely agree. What better time to ground yourself (whatever tf that means) than during the last couple years when COVID prevented shows from happening? Seems like there was the perfect time for a break. These artists are completely detached from reality.
— Ethan Boatman (@EthanBoatman) July 27, 2022
Still, many fans were supportive of Mendes and wanted him to continue working on his mental health. Some fans noted how intense world tours might be the problem, as this often takes an emotional and physical toll on the performer. “Honestly think it’s time to restructure the music industry. Huge world tours are not good for singers,” one person commented.
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