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Metallica Cancel Shows as Frontman James Hetfield Continues Rehab



Metallica have cancelled two festival appearances due to their frontman’s continued recovery process.

Sonic Temple and Louder Than Life festivals will go on without Metallica.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tool and Slipknot will be replacing Metallica as the bands have been confirmed as Sonic Temple headliners.

The Louder Than Life’s headliners are yet to be announced.

Continuing Therapy

Following a relapse last fall, Hetfield, 56, started rehabilitation in September 2019.

He had to return to rehab last year to ‘work on his recovery’ after ‘struggling with addiction for many years’.

Hetfield released the statement concerning festival cancelations and he also spoke to the fans directly.

“As part of my continuing effort to get and stay healthy, I have critical recovery events on those weekends that cannot be moved. I apologize to all of our fans who have bought tickets for these festivals. We are working with the festival promoters to provide for refunds or exchanges. My intent with this statement is saying “I apologize” to each one of you.”

Looking Forward to the Future

The singer said that he has not prioritized his health in the past year of touring. However, he now knows that his mental health comes first.

“Looking on the brighter side, my therapy is going well,” he assured the fans. “It was absolutely necessary for me to look after my mental, physical and spiritual health.”

All of Metallica’s other scheduled concerts this year will go on as planned. The band is scheduled to make their return to the stage in Santiago, Chile, on April 15th.

“Beyond 2020, I am optimistic about the blessings I have been given and what the future brings,” Hetfield added.

“I appreciate all the great prayers and support from everyone since I went into rehab last September. Like the moth into the flame, being human in this career has its huge challenges and can be difficult. Your understanding helps the healing,” he concluded.

 

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