Metallica postpones upcoming tour so singer James Hetfield can go to rehab
The news was confirmed on Twitter by bandmates Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo, who also said refunds for the shows will be given.
James Hetfield of Metallica is heading back to rehab. (Photo: AFP / Getty Images North America / Ethan Miller)
Heavy metal band Metallica has had to postpone its upcoming concert dates in Australia and New Zealand so singer and guitarist James Hetfield can return to rehab.
The band was due to play in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland in October and November as part of their WorldWired tour.
The news was confirmed on Twitter by Hetfield’s bandmates, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo. The band also tweeted that refunds for the postponed shows will be given.
They wrote: “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.”
They admitted to being “devastated” for inconveniencing their “most loyal fans who often travel great distances to experience our shows” and added that they intend to “make our way to your part of the world as soon as health and schedule permit.”
They ended their message with a note of thanks. “We appreciate your understanding and support for James and, as always, thank you for being a part of our Metallica family.”
Hetfield has been struggling with addiction and alcoholism, which was touched on in the 2004 documentary, Some Kind Of Monster.
