Entertainment
The Weeknd Cancels Rose Bowl Concert, Delays Album Release Amid LA Wildfires
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Weeknd has canceled his highly anticipated concert at the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles, originally scheduled for Jan. 25, and postponed the release of his new album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” to Jan. 31. The decision comes in response to the ongoing devastation caused by wildfires in Los Angeles County, which have claimed at least 24 lives and burned 60 square miles of land.
“Out of respect and concern for the people of Los Angeles County, I am canceling the Rose Bowl concert originally scheduled for January 25th,” the artist, born Abel Tesfaye, wrote in a statement posted on social media. “This city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me, and my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time.”
More than 92,000 residents are under evacuation orders, with an additional 89,000 under evacuation warnings, according to local authorities. The wildfires have caused widespread destruction, displacing thousands and prompting an outpouring of support from the entertainment industry.
Refunds for tickets purchased through Ticketmaster will be issued automatically, while those who bought tickets through third-party resellers like StubHub or SeatGeek are advised to contact their point of purchase. The Weeknd emphasized his commitment to supporting recovery efforts, stating, “My focus remains on supporting the recovery of these communities and aiding its incredible people as they rebuild.”
“Hurry Up Tomorrow” marks the final installment in The Weeknd’s trilogy, which began with his 2020 album “After Hours.” The project will be accompanied by a film of the same name, starring Tesfaye alongside Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan, set for release in May. Details about both the album and the film remain scarce, but the album is expected to feature singles such as “Take Me Back” and “Echoes of Love.”
The Weeknd is also planning a world tour later this year, which will likely include a rescheduled Los Angeles concert. Meanwhile, other artists affected by the wildfires, including Madlib, DIIV‘s Zachary Cole Smith, and Empress Of, have shared their losses and called for support. Relief efforts have gained momentum, with Beyoncé donating $1 million and a benefit concert scheduled for Jan. 30 at Inglewood‘s Intuit Dome.