Neil Diamond has today announced he is retiring from touring after recently being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
It has also been confirmed that the music icon's upcoming Australian leg of his 50th anniversary tour in March are now cancelled.
"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring," Diamond said in a statement.
"I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years.
"My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.
"I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come.
"My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you."
Australian tour promoter and President and CEO of TEG Dainty, Paul Dainty, added, "I am devastated and saddened to hear the news of Neil’s illness and his retirement from touring.
"I have had the honour of promoting Neil’s numerous tours in Australia and New Zealand, he is one of the world’s greatest artists and we and his thousands and thousands of fans here will miss seeing him tour Down Under."
Tickets purchased for the Australian shows by credit or debit card will be refunded in full (allow up to ten working days), while Ticketek will contact those who paid by cash or Eftpos to arrange a refund.
