Why did rock band Kansas cancel two shows? Lead singer Ronnie Platt shares health update

Beloved rock band Kansas has canceled and rescheduled multiple tour dates following the announcement that lead singer Ronnie Platt has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

The 64-year-old vocalist, who has been with the band since 2014, shared the news on social media, Penn Live reports. He assured his fans that his condition is treatable and that he expects to return to performing soon.

Kansas is acclaimed among fans for classic hits like Carry On Wayward Son and Dust in the Wind. The band canceled their scheduled concerts in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Lake Charles, Louisiana, citing “band illness and doctor advisement.”

Additionally, two Oklahoma shows in Catoosa and Durant have been postponed to later this year. The band has apologized for the inconvenience and assured fans that their focus remains on Platt’s health and recovery.

In a recent Instagram post, Kansas captioned,

"Due to band illness and doctor advisement, the upcoming KANSAS show on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Lake Charles, LA has been cancelled. The band apologizes for the inconvenience and hopes to be back on the road soon. All tickets will be refunded at point of purchase."

Fans weighed in on the comment section of the post to share their well-wishes for the band vocalist Ronnie Platt. Below are what some of them commented:

"Take care and heal up fast! ❤️", wished a fan.

"We love you, Ronnie! Feel better soon!!! We'll be waiting for you", added another.

"You want nice weather come to Las Vegas. We need you guys to perform you canceled show you had here in Las Vegas", remarked a third.

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Ronnie Platt’s health update

Per People, Ronnie Platt first revealed his diagnosis on February 15, 2025, in a Facebook post. He captioned,

“For all of you asking, Tuesday I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, but before everyone gets all excited, it has a 99% survival rate. It has not spread. It’s contained to my thyroid. I just have to have my thyroid removed, go through some rehab time, and be right back in the saddle."

The singer also thanked fans for their support and reassured them that he remains optimistic about his recovery. He added,

"I sincerely appreciate everyone’s positive thoughts and prayers. As it has been put to me, this is just a bump in the road and will be behind me very soon! So everyone, please CARRY ON!"

Thyroid cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages but can cause issues like neck swelling, voice changes, and difficulty swallowing as it progresses. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, the survival rate remains high.

Kansas is still scheduled to perform next month on the ‘70s Rock and Romance Cruise, beginning March 15, 2025, and they have additional tour dates lined up for later this year, including an August 15 concert in Batavia, New York.

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