A cancelled performance (also called a cancelled show, cancellation) refers to a scheduled live event that does not occur as planned due to factors such as health issues, injury, controversy, or force majeure. Cancellations may affect single dates, multiple shows, or entire tours and often result in rescheduling, refunds, or permanent cancellation. In the modern music industry, such cases are increasingly visible, particularly those involving vocal strain, chronic pain, or other health-related concerns.
Lady Gaga has experienced several notable cancellations, largely linked to health challenges during demanding tours. In 2009, the Fame Kills tour with Kanye West was fully cancelled following the 2009 MTV VMAs controversy and creative differences, leading Gaga to launch The Monster Ball as a solo tour. During the Born This Way Ball (2012–2013), a right-hip labral tear caused by intense choreography required surgery, forcing the cancellation of over 20 remaining shows and ending the tour early despite strong commercial success. Similarly, the Joanne World Tour (2017–2018) concluded prematurely after the final 10 shows were cancelled due to severe fibromyalgia-related chronic pain, following earlier postponements.
In 2025, during the Mayhem Ball tour, Gaga postponed a single Miami performance due to vocal cord strain identified during warmups, on medical advice to prevent long-term damage; the show was rescheduled for March 2026 with tickets honored. While Gaga has also faced weather-related cancellations (such as The Chromatica Ball in Miami Gardens in 2022), health-related interruptions have been the most significant factor in her touring history.
Concert residencies[]
| Title | Date | Number of Shows | Venue | Reason of Cancellation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| This Is It (Opening act) | 2009 | N/A | The O2 Arena | Dues to Michael Jackson's death |
| The Fame Kills: Starring Kanye West and Lady Gaga | 2009-2010 | N/A | Various | Due to 2009 MTV VMA controversy surrounding Kanye West and creative differences between two artist |
| The Born This Way Ball | 2012, June 3 | 1 | Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia | Due to security concerns caused by protest of Islamic Defenders Front |
| The Born This Way Ball | 2013 | 21 | Various | Remaining North American leg was cancelled due to hip injury |
| Joanne World Tour | 2017, September 15 | 1 | Rock in Rio performance at Barra Olympic Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Due to severe chronic pain caused by fibromyalgia |
| Joanne World Tour | 2018 | 10 | Various | Remaining European leg was cancelled due to health issues |
| The Chromatica Ball | 2022, September 17 | 1 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, US | Was abruptly halted mid-performance due to severe inclement weather with 6 songs remaining |
| The Mayhem Ball | 2025, September 3 | 1 | Kaseya Center, Miami, US | Was cancelled due to vocal strain and postponed to March 13, 2026 |
| Headlining tours |
|
| Co-headlining |
|
| Residencies |
|
| Promotional concerts |
|
| Supporting act |
|
| Related articles | Performances |
Haus of Gaga (Dancers - Band) · Notable Moments (career highlights) | |
| Concerts | |
| Performances |
|
| Events |
|
| Guest appearances | |
| Cancelled | |
| By era (chronological) |
|
| Stage & props | |
| Interstitial & films |
|