Mystery as Peter Kay cancels 110-date tour saying ‘Sorry, my family always comes first’
COMEDIAN Peter Kay yesterday dramatically pulled out of his biggest ever tour because of a family crisis.
In a shock announcement Kay, one of Britain’s best-loved stand-up comics, apologised to fans after cancelling all his work commitments for the foreseeable future.
Kay, 44, told fans: “My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I’m sure you’ll understand my family must always come first. Once again, I’m very sorry.”
After an eight-year absence from the stage Kay was due to embark on a gruelling year-long tour kicking off in Birmingham in April.
Marathon
Tickets for the 110-date stand-up marathon went on sale last month and 1.7 million people snapped up seats for the sold-out shows.
Those who missed out paid up to £2,000 for £40 tickets on re-sale websites.
The arena tour of the UK and Ireland – which included stops in cities such as Glasgow, Dublin and Leeds as well as nine shows at London’s O2 Arena – was originally scheduled for just 26 dates but was hugely expanded due to the demand.
They also included 22 shows in Manchester, near his hometown of Bolton.
Kay also cancelled six charity Dance For Life shows scheduled for early next year in aid of Cancer Research UK.
The star – who has always kept his family out of the spotlight – has not revealed the reason for cancelling all his future work projects.
Kay, estimated to be worth £43million, married Susan Gargan in 2001 after three years of dating.
The couple met when Kay was working in a cinema and Susan in high street chemist’s Boots.
They have two sons Charlie, 13, and Finley James, 10.
Announcing the news in a statement he said: “Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects.
“This unfortunately includes my upcoming stand-up tour, Dance For Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments.”
The statement added that ticket holders for both Peter Kay’s Live Arena Tour and Dance For Life shows will be refunded from their original point of purchase.
Fans reacted with shock and dismay on social media but others expressed anger at the sudden cancellation after buying tickets which had been marketed as an “ideal Christmas gift”.
Saira Khan said: “Gutted about Peter Kay cancelling his tour, I had bought tickets – but more importantly I hope he and his family are OK. Family always comes first.”
Kay has written, produced and acted in several award-winning comedy shows after first finding fame in the Channel 4 sitcom Phoenix Nights in 2001.
The announcement will not affect the final two episodes of his hit BBC One sitcom Car Share, which will be aired next year.
Appearing on ITV’s Jonathan Ross Show last month, Kay said his new tour would likely be the final time fans would see him perform on stage.
COMEDIAN Peter Kay has – for family reasons – cancelled his first tour in eight years, all 110 dates. Fans will be bitterly disappointed by this abrupt decision but we wish Peter Kay all the best and hope his problems are swiftly resolved.