Daniel O’Donnell to Take Break from Touring in 2026 After Ongoing Chest Issues
Daniel O’Donnell, one of Ireland’s most beloved entertainers, has announced that he will take a step back from touring next year to “recharge his batteries” following recurring chest problems. The 63-year-old country star, whose career spans nearly four decades, reassured fans that while the health issues have been challenging, he remains otherwise in excellent condition — and he has no plans to retire.
Speaking to the Sunday World, O’Donnell explained that the decision comes after years of pushing through his busy performance schedule despite frequent chest discomfort. “For the past number of years I’ve had frequent chest issues, which wouldn’t have bothered me if I wasn’t singing,” he said. “Loads of people have what I have and it doesn’t bother them one bit. I function absolutely perfectly with the issues as well and I’m otherwise in perfect health. But because I’m singing it’s more difficult with those problems.”
While O’Donnell emphasized that the condition is not life-threatening, he admitted that the demands of constant touring have taken their toll. “I haven’t made this decision because of ill-health or anything,” he stressed. “It’s because I just feel that the continuous touring is not suiting me now and I need to figure out what to do.”
The singer confirmed that he will honor all scheduled shows through the end of 2025, with concerts planned across Ireland, the UK, and the United States. He said he wanted to make the announcement early so fans have the opportunity to see him live before he scales back. “I’ve been fine doing recent shows and I intend to complete all shows booked up to the end of this year,” O’Donnell said. “I’m looking forward to them, but I just felt I needed to take a break and recharge my batteries.”
For O’Donnell, the decision marks a rare pause in a career defined by relentless touring, recording, and fan engagement. Since the late 1980s, he has built a devoted international following with his warm stage presence, heartfelt ballads, and traditional country sound. His tours have often stretched for months at a time, bringing him to audiences across Europe, North America, and Australia.
Despite stepping back in 2026, O’Donnell was quick to reassure fans that this is not the end of his career. “I’ll figure out what works best for me doing the shows,” he said. “But I’m certainly not retiring.” Instead, he plans to use the break to reassess his schedule and determine a sustainable way forward — one that allows him to perform without compromising his health.
O’Donnell’s decision reflects a growing awareness among veteran performers of the physical demands of life on the road, particularly for singers whose voices and stamina are central to their careers. While many artists continue performing well into their later years, the grind of travel, rehearsals, and nightly shows can exacerbate even minor health concerns.
Fans have responded to the news with an outpouring of support, praising O’Donnell for prioritizing his well-being and expressing gratitude for the decades of music and memories he has shared. Social media posts have been flooded with well-wishes, with many promising to attend shows before the break and eagerly awaiting his eventual return to the stage.
As he prepares for his final run of concerts before the pause, O’Donnell remains focused on delivering the heartfelt performances that have made him a household name. “I’m going to enjoy every single show this year,” he said. “And when the time comes, I’ll take that break, recharge, and see what’s next.”
For now, Daniel O’Donnell’s message is clear: he may be slowing down, but he’s not stepping away.