Fans were left concerned after rock icon Rod Stewart was seen using an oxygen tank during a concert in Utah last week — but his wife, Penny Lancaster, has now revealed the reason behind the dramatic moment.
The 81-year-old star, currently touring the US with his One Last Time show, nearly fainted mid-performance at the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre on June 19. Videos from the gig show Rod leaning on the stage and telling fans: “The show must go on. I nearly [bleeping] fainted there. Would you mind if I sit down for this one?”
After a brief break with an oxygen tank, Rod completed the rest of the two-hour show, much to the relief of fans.
Penny explained on Loose Women that the stunt wasn’t a cause for alarm. She revealed Rod had been recovering from a respiratory infection and hadn’t anticipated the effects of Salt Lake City’s high altitude.
“He just flew in on the day of the show,” Penny said. “He wasn’t aware of the altitude, which dropped oxygen levels by another 17%, and combined with running around on stage, it suddenly hit him. The oxygen tanks are there for exactly these situations, even for younger performers.”
Penny added, “It was still hard to watch. Rod’s fitter than most people his age, so it was uncomfortable to see him struggling.”
Earlier this month, Rod had to cancel a California show due to an acute respiratory infection that caused laryngitis. Despite treatment, he could not perform and apologised to fans, promising to reschedule.
Yet, he faced criticism for attending Scotland’s World Cup match against Haiti the following day.
Fans and fellow musicians continue to send well-wishes, with many praising Rod for powering through despite health setbacks, proving that even at 81, the rock legend is determined to keep the music going.
