Billy Joel Reschedules UK Shows Following Surgery and Recovery Plan

Legendary musician Billy Joel has announced that his highly anticipated UK concerts will be postponed until 2026 due to a medical condition requiring surgery. The decision comes after a recent health assessment, which determined that the singer-songwriter needed additional recovery time before returning to the stage.

The 75-year-old was scheduled to perform at Edinburgh's Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium on June 6, 2025, and Liverpool's Anfield Stadium on June 21, 2025. These would have been his first UK headline shows in years, making the postponement particularly disappointing for fans. However, the concerts have now been rescheduled for June 2026, with ticket holders advised that their existing tickets will remain valid for the new dates.

Joel, known for his unwavering commitment to live performance, expressed regret over the delay but reassured fans that his health must come first. In a statement, he shared that while he is eager to return to the stage, the recommended recovery period is necessary to ensure he can deliver the kind of show audiences expect.

This development follows an incident earlier in the year when the musician suffered a fall during a performance in Connecticut. While he continued the show at the time, the event raised concerns about his well-being, leading to further medical evaluation. As a result, it was determined that surgery followed by physical therapy was essential for his long-term health.

Beyond the UK shows, the postponement impacts other planned tour dates, with a revised schedule expected to be announced soon. Fans who cannot attend the rescheduled concerts have been advised to seek refunds through their original point of purchase.

Joel's influence on music spans decades, with timeless hits such as Piano Man, Uptown Girl, and We Didn’t Start the Fire still resonating with audiences worldwide. His return to UK stages has been long-awaited, making this delay unfortunate, but the priority remains his full recovery.

Despite the setback, fans have been overwhelmingly supportive, sharing well wishes and messages of encouragement. Many have taken to social media to express their understanding and anticipation for his eventual return. The overwhelming sentiment is one of patience and appreciation for the artist’s well-being.

While the delay is disappointing, it serves as a reminder of the importance of health, even for the biggest names in music. With recovery now his main focus, fans can look forward to an unforgettable performance when Billy Joel finally makes his long-anticipated UK return in 2026.