5 days ago
Huge country band forced to cancel tour as lead singer undergoes cancer treatment
Hugely popular country band The Mavericks have cancelled several upcoming shows while lead singer Raul Malo undergoes treatment for stage 4 cancer.
The 'Dance the night away' star has pulled out of a scheduled appearance on board the 2026 Outlaw Country Cruise so that Malo can undergo hernia surgery linked to a previous cancer-related operation.
59-year-old Malo, who is a firm favourite on the touring circuit in Ireland, has been battling liver cancer for the past year and announced to his fans on his Instagram page that he would be taking a break from touring to concentrate on getting well. AUSTIN, TEXAS – MAY 18: Singer-songwriter Raul Malo of The Mavericks performs in concert at ACL Live on May 18, 2024 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by)
In a statement on social media the band said that due to Raul's upcoming treatment, the Mavericks will no longer be a part of the Sandy Beaches Cruise 2026 as Raul will undergo hernia surgery next January to repair complications from previous surgery.
The band are due to play a number of gigs across the United States in the run up to Christmas this year before taking a break in January to concentrate on Raul's health.
'The recovery time following this procedure will require us to take the first couple of months of 2026 off for him to rest and recuperate, and hopefully be the final hurdle in his cancer treatment.' AUSTIN, TEXAS – MAY 18: Musician Eddie Perez (L) and Raul Malo of The Mavericks perform in concert at ACL Live on May 18, 2024 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by)
The band's statement continued, 'This decision was not made lightly, and we apologize for any disappointment or inconvenience this may cause.
'Your continued support means the world to us, and we are deeply grateful for your understanding during this time.
The Mavericks have been a firm favourite on the country music circuit in Ireland with thousands of fans travelling to their concerts at various venues across the country. No gigs are scheduled for Ireland for the foreseeable future and their tour of the USA is continuing towards the end of this year.
