Steven J. Horowitz Senior Music Writer After announcing the cancellation of eight European tour dates earlier this month so frontman Josh Homme could return Stateside for emergency surgery, Queens of the Stone Age has announced the cancellation of an additional seven performances slated for August. “Due to continued medical care, it is under doctors’ orders that Josh Homme remain in their care in the United States,” read a statement posted to social media. “The Homme family and QOTSA are so grateful for the outpouring of well wishes and kind understanding at this time.”Please check festival websites for further information.
pic.twitter.com/6lxR7NvFB1 On July 9, the band initially stated that it would be canceling eight European tour dates. In a post on social media, they expressed regret for having to cancel the shows, and said that they were left with no other choice. “QOTSA regret to announce that Josh Homme must return to the United States immediately for emergency surgery,” reads the statement. “Every effort was made to push through and play for you, but it is no longer an option to continue.” Of the shows canceled, Queens of the Stone Age bowed out of festivals in France and Slovakia, as well as headline shows in Croatia and Greece.
Prior to the announcement, the group canceled its appearance at the AMA Festival in Italy on July 5 due to illness. The most recent spate of cancelations includes gigs at Way Out Fest and Cabaret Vert.
Though it’s unclear what type of surgery Homme underwent, he’s been open about his health struggles over the years. Last year, he shared that he’d been diagnosed with a form of cancer in 2022 and underwent surgery to have it removed.
Read more on variety.com