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Concern is growing for Electric Light Orchestra legend Jeff Lynne after the band was forced to cancel their highly anticipated show in Manchester at the last minute on Thursday night.
Thousands of eager fans had packed into Manchester’s Co-Op Live Arena for what was billed as one of the final chances to see the iconic group perform as part of their farewell tour. But after a lengthy wait for Lynne and his bandmates to take to the stage, an announcement was made informing concertgoers that the show would not go ahead as planned.
The news was met with audible disappointment from the crowd, who had been looking forward to hearing timeless hits like Mr. Blue Sky, Livin’ Thing, and Telephone Line live one more time.
Jeff Lynne, 77, has reportedly been struggling with a broken hand in recent weeks but had soldiered on during Wednesday’s first Manchester performance. Fans at that earlier show noted that he appeared to be in some discomfort, and many expressed concern over his wellbeing even before Thursday’s sudden cancellation.
A spokesperson for the band confirmed the unfortunate development in a statement released shortly after the announcement in the arena.
“Unfortunately, due to illness tonight’s (Thursday 10th July 2025) scheduled performance of Jeff Lynne’s ELO at the Co-Op Live will not go ahead,” the statement read.
“Jeff is devastated he cannot perform this evening. More information will become available as soon as possible.”
No further details have been shared about Lynne’s condition, but fans have been quick to take to social media to share their best wishes for his recovery and to express their support for the musician who has entertained millions over more than five decades.
One fan wrote on X: “So sad to hear tonight’s gig was cancelled but health comes first. Take care Jeff, we love you.” Another added: “Heartbreaking for all of us here at the arena tonight, but Jeff’s health is what matters. Get well soon!”
The current farewell tour is set to mark the end of the road for ELO, with this summer’s run of UK and European dates billed as their final live performances. Whether this cancellation will affect other dates on the tour remains to be seen, with fans eagerly awaiting updates from the band’s management in the coming days.
Jeff Lynne’s ELO has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in recent years, with sold-out tours, a successful greatest hits album, and glowing reviews from critics and fans alike. His ability to blend rock, pop, and orchestral elements made ELO one of the most distinctive and beloved bands of the 1970s and beyond.
For now, however, fans will have to wait and hope that Lynne is able to rest and recover enough to return to the stage soon and finish the farewell tour on a high.
