Justin Bieber has suspended the rest of his world tour to focus on his health.
A day after he posted photos from his Brazil performance at the Rock in Rio festival, he told TMZ he was canceling the remaining 70 shows scheduled through March 2023 in South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.
The tour had first been beset by delays due to the pandemic. Then the 28-year-old singer began touring in March, but postponed the North American leg in early June after being diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which caused facial paralysis.
The rare condition occurs when the shingles virus hits a facial nerve near the ear, shutting down facial movement.
On Tuesday, he chronicled his attempts to get better and resume his tour.
“After resting and consulting with my doctors, family and team, I went to Europe in an effort to continue with the tour,” he said in a statement obtained by TMZ. “I performed six live shows, but it took a real toll on me. This past weekend, I performed at Rock in Rio and I gave everything I have to the people in Brazil.”
Afterward, though, he hit a wall.
“After getting off stage, the exhaustion overtook me and I realized that I need to make my health the priority right now,” Bieber said. “So I’m going to take a break from touring for the time being. I’m going to be ok, but I need time to rest and get better. I’ve been so proud to bring this show and our message of Justice to the world. Thank you for your prayers and support throughout all of this! I love you all passionately!!”
