Celine Dion cancels all shows, cites family health

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Celine Dion has cleared her calendar of all scheduled performances, saying she needs to focus on her health, her husband's recovery from a cancerous tumor and raising their three young children.

 

The superstar vocalist canceled concerts that were slated through March 22, 2015, including a tour of Asia planned for the fall and regular shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, show organizers announced Wednesday.

 

"I want to devote every ounce of my strength and energy to my husband's healing, and to do so, it's important for me to dedicate this time to him and to our children," Dion, 46, said in a statement. "I also want to apologize to all my fans everywhere, for inconveniencing them, and I thank them so much for their love and support."

 

Dion's husband, Rene Angelil, had a cancerous tumor removed in December, and she said it has been a struggle to deal with the disease and juggle a full schedule of performances.

 

Show organizers said the Canadian singer also hasn't recovered from an illness that inflamed her throat muscles and forced her to cancel performances in Las Vegas since July 29.

 

Fans who bought tickets for future shows are eligible for refunds.

 

The five-time Grammy winner launched her popular Las Vegas residency in 2003 and regularly sells out the 4,000-seat Colosseum. She has three children, including 13-year-old Rene Charles and twin 3-year-olds Eddy and Nelson.