Red Hot Chili Peppers On Anthony Kiedis' Hospitalisation: 'It Was Really Scary'

Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith has spoken out on frontman Anthony Kiedis' hospitalisation earlier this week which saw the band cancel a headlining gig after the singer was rushed from the venue in an ambulance. 

Shortly after the California-based event concluded, the US outfit announced on their website that Kiedis was suffering "complications from the intestinal flu".

In an interview with Radio X, Smith said, "His stomach was killing him (and) It was really scary.

"So we went directly to the hospital and we were really upset we couldn't play for the fans, but also more worried about him.

"I really appreciate all the well wishes. People sent so much stuff."

Smith acknowledged that fans were extremely concerned for Kiedis, referring to a number of tragic deaths of some of music's biggest names this year. 

"I know everyone's freaked out when they hear about another musician going into the hospital. It's been such a rough year," he said.

"He's a very strong man and he"ll be back better than ever."

Smith confirmed that RHCP will return to the stage for a show in Ohio "this weekend".

Earlier this month, the group announced they will be releasing their first album in five years, The Getaway, next month.