The popular Swedish metal band Ghost unexpectedly cancelled their scheduled performance in Mexico City on Tuesday, September 23. Frontman Tobias Forge, also known by his stage names like Papa Emeritus, fell ill with food poisoning, making it impossible for the group to take the stage at the Palacio De Los Deportes. The cancellation occurred shortly before the show was set to begin.
Key Takeaways
- Ghost's Mexico City concert on September 23 was cancelled.
- Frontman Tobias Forge suffered from food poisoning.
- Remaining shows on September 24 and 25 are expected to proceed.
- Refunds for the cancelled show are being processed automatically.
Frontman's Sudden Illness Leads to Cancellation
Fans gathered at the Palacio De Los Deportes received news of the cancellation just before the concert was to start. The band issued a statement via social media, explaining the reason for the abrupt change. Tobias Forge's food poisoning rendered him unable to perform, leading to the difficult decision to cancel the show.
The statement expressed deep regret over the situation. It clarified that while Tuesday's performance was off, the subsequent two concerts in Mexico City were still planned. This offered some relief to fans who had tickets for the later dates.
Quick Fact
Food poisoning symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Recovery time varies but can leave individuals feeling weak for several days.
Impact on Fans and Ticketing Information
The late announcement caused disappointment among attendees. Many fans had already arrived at the venue, anticipating the band's performance. However, the band prioritized Forge's health.
For those who purchased tickets online for the cancelled September 23 show, the refund process is automatic. According to the band's statement, refunds will be processed to the original card used for the purchase. The timeline for receiving the refund depends on the individual banking institution.
"It is with deep regret that we must inform you the Ghost show tonight, September 23, has been cancelled," the band's social media statement read. "Tobias Forge is suffering from food poisoning, which makes it impossible for the band to perform."
Fan Reactions and Support for Forge
News of Forge's illness and the cancellation quickly spread online. Fans shared their reactions, largely expressing sympathy for the frontman and understanding of the situation. Many acknowledged the severity of food poisoning and the challenges it presents for performers.
One fan on Reddit commented, "Food poisoning is horrible, and I guess they really tried to go [through] with the show because of the late cancellation. Last time I had food poisoning I was sick for about 12 hours, but was totally drained and couldn’t eat properly for almost a week. If he manages to do the other two shows he’s a champ." This comment highlights the debilitating nature of the illness and the physical toll it takes.
Background on 'Moctezuma's Revenge'
Some online comments referenced "Moctezuma's curse" or "Moctezuma's revenge." This is a colloquial term often used to describe traveler's diarrhea or food poisoning experienced by visitors to Mexico. It is not an actual curse but rather a common health issue related to new environments and dietary changes.
Upcoming Performances Still Scheduled
Despite the setback, Ghost's remaining performances in Mexico City are still expected to proceed. The band is scheduled to play on Wednesday, September 24, and Thursday, September 25. This indicates that Tobias Forge's condition is not expected to prevent him from performing on these subsequent dates.
The band's commitment to fulfilling their tour obligations, despite a health emergency, was noted by many fans. The ability of a performer to bounce back from such an illness quickly is often challenging, especially given the physical demands of a live metal concert.
- The band's statement specifically noted the cancellation for September 23.
- Future dates for September 24 and 25 were confirmed to be on schedule.
- Fans with tickets for the remaining shows should check official band channels for any further updates.
Ghost's Presence in the Metal Scene
Ghost, known for their theatrical stage presence and unique blend of heavy metal and rock, has a significant global following. Their elaborate costumes, anonymous band members (except for Forge), and distinctive sound have earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
The band's tour dates are highly anticipated events for their fans. Cancellations, especially last-minute ones, are rare and usually indicative of a serious underlying issue, such as a performer's health. The band's prompt communication about Forge's food poisoning helped manage fan expectations and provide clarity.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise during live performances. The well-being of artists is paramount, and decisions like these are made to ensure their health and the quality of future shows.