madonna health© Getty

Madonna's heartbreaking news just seven days into tour: 'I don't feel well'

The Queen of Pop is a mom-of-six

Senior Editor
October 24, 2023

Just seven days into her 'Celebration' tour, the indomitable Madonna shared some somber news with her fans, a revelation that left many concerned for the Queen of Pop.

During a performance in Antwerp, Belgium, the iconic singer made an emotional confession about her health, connecting with her audience on a profound level. 

"Less than four months ago, I was in a hospital and I was unconscious, and people were thinking, predicting that I might not make it,” she disclosed to the crowd, a hush descending as they absorbed the gravity of her words. 

With heartfelt emotion, she added: “So, it’s a miracle that I’m here right now.”

© Kevin Mazur

Madonna performs during opening night of The Celebration Tour at The O2 Arena on October 14

These raw sentiments weren't all. Madonna, 65, further expressed that she wasn't yet at her full strength, despite being on tour. “I must tell you, I don’t feel really well right now, but I can’t complain ’cause I’m alive,” she remarked. 

The resilience in her words, coupled with the vulnerability of her confession, showcased the singer's mettle.

© Getty

Madonna and Mercy James performed together on the first night of the Celebration tour

The audience in Antwerp was treated not only to her musical talents but also to a deeply intimate insight into Madonna's personal struggles. 

Recalling her recent brush with mortality, she felt the presence of her late mother, who passed away from breast cancer at age 30. 

© Instagram

Madonna recently recovered from an illness

"My mother, God bless her, she must be watching over me," Madonna said, fighting back tears. She continued, imagining her mother's message: “Girl, it’s not your time to go.”

Fans are well aware that Madonna's return to the stage follows a severe health scare earlier in the summer. She was admitted to the ICU due to a bacterial infection, an event that had the world praying for her recovery. 

In the wake of this crisis, she took to social media, sharing her gratitude towards her six children who supported her during this time.

© Instagram

Madonna ahead of Celebration tour

Madonna's expansive family includes Lourdes Leon, 26; Rocco Ritchie, 23; David Banda, 18; Mercy James, 17; and 11-year-old twins Stella and Estere.

Madonna's Celebration tour, her first in three years, is slated to begin in London. It will subsequently traverse through renowned cities like Copenhagen, Barcelona, Paris, and Milan, among others. 

The tour was officially announced in January, with Madonna conveying her enthusiasm, stating: "I am excited to explore as many songs as possible in hopes to give my fans the show they have been waiting for."

Madonna’s tour kicked off in London on October 14. While she may not be feeling her best, she's forging on, driven by her iconic spirit and the unwavering support of her fans. 

Her candid confession in Antwerp only amplifies her image as a resilient and fierce performer, and her fans surely can't wait to see what else the 'Celebration' tour has in store.

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