Cancellations Disrupt David Lee Roth’s Tour, While Sammy Hagar Extends Support

David Lee Roth’s plans for a summer comeback have encountered an unexpected issue. Some of the scheduled shows by the former Van Halen frontman have been canceled, leaving fans curious about the cause. Following the news, Sammy Hagar quickly reached out to Roth with a public message of support.

“Hey Dave, Sammy here. I just got a call from Michael Anthony as I’m sitting down having my favorite cocktail, and I don’t have to tell you what this is,” Hagar remarked, smiling with his margarita in hand. “I’m sorry about your tour getting canceled. I hope you’re well. I hope there’s not a physical problem.”

The canceled shows include those in Colorado, Iowa, Kentucky, and Illinois. No reason has been given for these cancellations. Only Roth’s performances scheduled for July have been affected. His shows in August and September remain available for purchase. The August 7 show in Sturgis, South Dakota, is still listed on his official website.

Hagar expressed appreciation for Roth’s dedication to Van Halen’s legacy. “Honestly, Mike and I love the fact that you’ve been out there doing it, supporting the greatest band in the world that we were both part of,” he said. “That’s messed up. Supporting what we did in this band to keep this music alive.” He emphasized the unique chemistry within Van Halen. “You and I, Mikey, Al, Ed, cannot be replaced.”

He invited Roth to join him and Michael Anthony during their Las Vegas residency in September. “So, when you’re ready to carry on, you go, brother. Mike and I support you.” Hagar encouraged, “Come to Vegas for the residency in September. Come on, join us. Sing a couple songs, MC the show. Come out and do what you do, which is pretty damn entertaining.” He concluded with a warm message, “Hope you’re well. God bless, brother.”

In the video’s caption, Hagar reiterated his sincerity: “I hope the news about Dave is not AI!!!!! If it is, my post is still from my heart and soul. It’s vital this music carry on, especially with the AI music out there. Those of us that can still go out and play should do it as long as they can physically and emotionally carry the torch. Van Halen was, should be, and hopefully always will be real live music, not just for our fans but future fans of real rock music.”

The interaction marked a shift in the relationship between the two rock icons, historically characterized by competition. Roth and Hagar both served as Van Halen’s frontmen at different periods. After Roth left Van Halen in 1985, Hagar took over as frontman, staying with the band until 1996 and returning from 2003 to 2005. Roth returned full-time in 2006, leading until the band’s conclusion in 2020.

Despite their rivalry, they collaborated briefly during the 2002 “Song for Song, The Heavyweight Champs of Rock and Roll” tour, but tensions resurfaced quickly. Roth’s canceled dates are another twist in his return to live performing after revealing plans to retire in 2021.

“I am throwing in the shoes. I’m retiring,” he told the Las Vegas Review-Journal, calling it the first and only official announcement. His farewell Las Vegas residency was postponed due to COVID-19, yet he returned to the stage in 2025 and continued performing into 2026. He has not commented on the canceled shows or Hagar’s invitation. Fox News Digital reached out to Roth and Hagar for comment.