TODAY’S PAPER | July 10, 2026 | EPAPER

Why did Yungblud cancel major festival appearance? Singer puts health after emotional breakdown

Singer confirmed he is taking time at home in UK after admitting recent emotional struggles need serious attention


Pop Culture & Art July 10, 2026 2 min read
Photo: Reuters

Yungblud has cancelled his scheduled appearance at Cowboys Music Festival in Calgary, Canada, saying he is taking time away from performing to focus on his mental health following an emotional onstage breakdown that deeply moved fans.

The 28 year old musician, whose real name is Dominic Harrison, announced that he will no longer perform at the Canadian festival on July 12 after deciding to remain at home in the UK while addressing personal struggles. In a statement shared with fans, he apologised for his absence and explained that he is taking his wellbeing seriously.

"To all my family in Canada, I apologise for not being there with you all this weekend. I’m currently in a place where I’m working on myself and taking time off at home in the UK," Harrison wrote.

He added that he is approaching the situation with long term recovery in mind, writing, "I’m taking this extremely seriously and facing head on what’s going on for the good of the long term. I will never take any of this for granted and I will see you all soon. I love you all."

The announcement came only days after Yungblud became visibly emotional during his performance at Bludfest in Czechia on June 27. While speaking to the audience, the Fleabag singer paused the concert and openly discussed feelings of pain and disconnection that had affected him for some time.

"Lately, I have felt so disconnected from everything. I have been trying my best to wake up every day. I have felt in pain a lot and I don’t know why for a long time," he told the crowd.

He also thanked fans for providing him with a sense of belonging during difficult periods, saying that seeing their faces helped him feel safe when he struggled with the pressures of life outside the stage.

After the performance, Harrison shared footage of the emotional moment on Instagram, explaining why he chose to post such a personal experience. He acknowledged that he hesitated because he did not want it to appear as though he was seeking attention, but ultimately decided to be honest about what had happened.

The singer revealed that the emotions displayed during the concert reflected feelings that had been building over the past year. He explained that although he initially felt relieved after leaving the stage, he experienced another breakdown while alone shortly afterwards.

Harrison also reflected on the demands of modern music careers, saying the fast pace of the industry often leaves little opportunity to process personal experiences. He admitted that online criticism and negativity from strangers, as well as scepticism from some within the music industry, had also weighed heavily on him.

Despite stepping away temporarily, Yungblud reassured supporters that he remains committed to returning once he is ready. His latest statement has been met with widespread messages of encouragement from fans, many praising his decision to prioritise his health instead of continuing to perform while struggling emotionally.

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