Premium Content:

Metallica cancel Australian tour as James Hetfield enters rehab

Metallica have called off their World Tour and cancelled their Australian concerts as lead singer and Guitarist James Hetfield enters rehab.

- Advertisement -

The rock legends cancelled their Australian stadium tour just weeks before their sojourn around Australia and New Zealand was about to kick off. The band released a statement explaining that Hetfield had entered rehab for ongoing addiction issues.

The three remaining band members issued a statement apologising to fans.

We are truly sorry to inform our fans and friends that we must postpone our upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand.

As most of you probably know, our brother James has been struggling with addiction on and off for many years. He has now, unfortunately, had to re-enter a treatment program to work on his recovery again.

We fully intend to make our way to your part of the world as soon as health and schedule permit. We’ll let you know as soon as we can.

Once again, we are devastated that we have inconvenienced so many of you, especially our most loyal fans who often travel great distances to experience our shows. We appreciate your understanding and support for James and, as always, thank you for being a part of our Metallica family.”

Promoter Live Nation said all tickets would get a full refund, and they would work with the band to lock in new sates as soon as possible.

The band’s latest album, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct, is the tenth in their long career. Their debut album Kill ‘Em All was released in 1983. Metallica achieved mainstream chart success in the 1990s with their album Metallica, Load and Reload. 

OIP Staff


Latest

Poppin Out returns for Adelaide Pride 2026 with Hannah Conda and many more

Mary's Poppin will transform Synagogue Place into a vibrant Pride street party featuring 32 performers, drag stars and DJs.

Belinda Carlisle adds extra shows to farewell tour

Belinda Carlisle has expanded her 2027 Australian farewell tour, adding Newcastle and Adelaide to a nationwide celebration of her career.

Trevor Ashley’s ‘Deep-Heat Rivalry’ is coming home to Australia

Trevor Ashley's camp musical parody Deep-Heat Rivalry arrives in Australia following a hit London season, with Midsumma and Mardi Gras runs.

Victorian government announces LGBTIQA+ grants

Twelve Victorian community projects will share more than $100,000 in HEY grants supporting young LGBTIQA+ people's wellbeing and inclusion.

Newsletter

Don't miss

Poppin Out returns for Adelaide Pride 2026 with Hannah Conda and many more

Mary's Poppin will transform Synagogue Place into a vibrant Pride street party featuring 32 performers, drag stars and DJs.

Belinda Carlisle adds extra shows to farewell tour

Belinda Carlisle has expanded her 2027 Australian farewell tour, adding Newcastle and Adelaide to a nationwide celebration of her career.

Trevor Ashley’s ‘Deep-Heat Rivalry’ is coming home to Australia

Trevor Ashley's camp musical parody Deep-Heat Rivalry arrives in Australia following a hit London season, with Midsumma and Mardi Gras runs.

Victorian government announces LGBTIQA+ grants

Twelve Victorian community projects will share more than $100,000 in HEY grants supporting young LGBTIQA+ people's wellbeing and inclusion.

Independent MP Helen Haines in critical condition after “attack”

Independent MP Helen Haines remains in critical condition after a vehicle incident outside her Wangaratta office, with investigations ongoing.

Poppin Out returns for Adelaide Pride 2026 with Hannah Conda and many more

Mary's Poppin will transform Synagogue Place into a vibrant Pride street party featuring 32 performers, drag stars and DJs.

Belinda Carlisle adds extra shows to farewell tour

Belinda Carlisle has expanded her 2027 Australian farewell tour, adding Newcastle and Adelaide to a nationwide celebration of her career.

Trevor Ashley’s ‘Deep-Heat Rivalry’ is coming home to Australia

Trevor Ashley's camp musical parody Deep-Heat Rivalry arrives in Australia following a hit London season, with Midsumma and Mardi Gras runs.