The iconic rockabilly trio, The Stray Cats, have regrettably canceled their entire fall U.S. tour, citing frontman Brian Setzer’s “serious illness.” This unfortunate news follows Setzer’s earlier revelation of an autoimmune disease diagnosis, which has significantly impacted his ability to play guitar, leaving fans heartbroken but united in their support for his recovery.
The highly anticipated U.S. tour for legendary rockabilly band The Stray Cats has been canceled due to a “serious illness” affecting guitarist and vocalist Brian Setzer. The announcement, made on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, confirmed the full cancellation of their cross-country dates, which were scheduled to run from late October through November.
In a statement shared by the band, Setzer, 66, expressed his profound disappointment. “I’m heartbroken to share, due to serious illness, I am unable to perform and very regrettably have to cancel our Stray Cats tour,” he stated. “I know this affects so many people and I am devastated to have to deliver this news. I’ve been trying everything I can to go on and do these shows, but it is just not possible. I’ve been looking forward so much to being on stage with my band mates again and playing for all of our amazing fans, and I’m gutted.” This sentiment was widely reported by outlets such as People.
Brian Setzer’s Ongoing Health Battle: An Autoimmune Diagnosis
The recent cancellation casts a renewed spotlight on Setzer’s health journey, which began publicly in February 2025. At that time, he revealed he had been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that significantly impacted his ability to play guitar. He described noticing his hands cramping up towards the end of the previous Stray Cats tour in summer 2024.
Setzer elaborated on the unusual sensation, explaining, “I cannot play guitar. There is no pain, but it feels like I am wearing a pair of gloves when I try to play.” The condition severely affected his fine motor skills, reaching a point where he struggled with basic tasks like holding a pen or tying his shoes. Fortunately, Setzer sought treatment at the renowned Mayo Clinic, expressing confidence in his medical team.
Despite the challenges, Setzer maintained a positive outlook. In March, he shared an encouraging update, stating he was “getting better day by day” and that the “progress I’m making is excellent!” This hopeful message was followed by a video shared in April on his 66th birthday, showing him playing guitar, a sight that surely brought immense joy to his fans. “Man did I miss this…..,” he wrote on Instagram, highlighting his dedication to his craft.
The Road Back: Setzer’s Hopes and Fan Anticipation
Setzer’s optimism extended to his future plans, articulating a dream to tour “Japan, the States, and Europe with Stray Cats” and a strong desire to revive the beloved Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas show tradition. It was this renewed spirit that fueled the announcement in July of the now-canceled North American tour, with the band sharing they were “fired up” to hit the road again.
The canceled tour represented a significant moment for The Stray Cats, as it was their first major tour since 2019 and since Setzer’s diagnosis. Their return was anticipated by legions of fans eager to see the trio—comprised of Setzer, bassist Lee Rocker (64), and drummer Slim Jim Phantom (64)—back on stage. The band even released two new songs, “Stampede” and “Teenage Heaven,” their first new music since 2019, specifically to commemorate the tour’s launch.
The Canceled Dates and Impact on Fans
The 21-date tour was initially scheduled to begin on October 25, 2025, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. However, the opening night and the second show in Rockford, Illinois, on October 26, were canceled before the full tour announcement. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, the remaining dates, which would have concluded on November 23 in Wheatland, California, were then called off completely.
Fans who purchased tickets for any of the now-canceled shows will be able to receive refunds at their original point of purchase. The news, while deeply disappointing, was met with an outpouring of support from the fan community. Comments on social media platforms echoed a common sentiment: “Your well-being is the most important thing!” and “Please take care of yourself, your health is first! Don’t worry about us, we will support no matter what!” This collective understanding underscores the deep connection between the band and its dedicated followers.
Complete List of Canceled Tour Dates:
- October 25 – Mount Pleasant, MI – Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
- October 26 – Rockford, IL – Hard Rock Casino
- October 28 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace
- October 29 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
- October 31 – Columbus, OH – Mershon Auditorium
- November 1 – Gary, IN – Hard Rock Casino
- November 2 – Northfield, OH – MGM Northfield Park – Center Stage
- November 4 – Morristown, NJ – Mayo Performing Arts Center
- November 5 – Westbury, NY – Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair
- November 7 – Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods Resort Casino
- November 8 – Verona, NY – The Event Center at Turning Stone Resort Casino
- November 9 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
- November 11 – Cincinnati, OH – Taft Theatre
- November 13 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
- November 15 – Albuquerque, NM – Route 66 Casino Hotel – Legends Theater
- November 16 – Phoenix, AZ – Celebrity Theatre
- November 18 – Highland, CA – Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel
- November 19 – Las Vegas, NV – The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
- November 20 – TBD – TBD
- November 22 – Santa Rosa, CA – Ruth Finley Person Theater
- November 23 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
The Enduring Legacy of The Stray Cats
The Stray Cats first rose to prominence in the 1980s, igniting a global interest in 1950s-inspired rockabilly music. Their distinctive sound, combining rock and roll with punk energy, cemented their place in music history and influenced countless artists across genres. Hits like “Stray Cat Strut” and “Rock This Town” remain classic anthems.
Beyond his work with The Stray Cats, Brian Setzer has enjoyed a prolific solo career and famously formed the Brian Setzer Orchestra in the 1990s. This 17-piece big band ensemble reimagined swing and jump blues, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following, especially through their popular Christmas shows. Setzer’s last solo album, The Devil Always Collects, was released in 2023, showcasing his continued artistic vitality.
Looking Ahead: A Community United in Support
While the cancellation of the tour is a setback, Brian Setzer’s unwavering determination and his reported progress offer a beacon of hope for fans. The strong bond between The Stray Cats and their audience ensures that Setzer’s well-being remains the priority. The community stands ready to support him through his recovery, patiently awaiting the day he can once again grace the stage with his bandmates, whether for future Stray Cats tours or the cherished Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas tradition.
For now, the focus remains on Setzer’s health, a testament to the deep connection forged over decades of groundbreaking music.
