Toby Keith Concert Canceled For State Fair After Cancer Announcement

MILWAUKEE, WI — The Toby Keith concert scheduled for Aug. 4 at the Wisconsin State Fair Main Stage is canceled after the singer announced he had cancer on Sunday, fair organizers announced Monday.

Keith announced in a Twitter post that he was diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2021. He said he's spent months undergoing chemo, radiation and surgery. "So far, so good," Keith said, but he needs time to "breathe, recover and relax."

People who bought tickets for Keith's August concert through Etix will automatically get a refund in the coming days, Wisconsin State Fair said. People who bought a ticket at the State Fair ticket office with cash can return to get a refund during weekdays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ticketholders who paid cash should bring their ID and original ticket.

"I am looking forward to spending this time with my family," Keith said in a statement. "But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”

Officials from the fair were saddened to hear the news, according to the release.

“Our hearts go out to Toby, his family, and his dedicated fans," the fair said in a statement. "During this difficult time, Toby Keith and his team have made the decision to focus on his health; therefore, he will not be performing his Wisconsin State Fair show.”

An announcement on the entertainment at the fair's main stage for Aug. 4 is expected to come.