The Goo Goo Dolls have announced the unfortunate news that they are rescheduling their highly anticipated South Africa tour due to frontman John Rzeznik’s hospitalization. On December 3, the band shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, revealing that the South African dates, originally scheduled for early December, will now take place in March 2025. The rescheduling comes after Rzeznik, 58, was diagnosed with pneumonia and required medical attention.
In the emotional Instagram video, the band expressed their sadness over the situation. “We’re heartbroken to postpone our South Africa shows. This country means so much to us, and we were so excited to create more memories with you,” they captioned the clip, which showed Rzeznik lying in a hospital bed, visibly fatigued but speaking directly to fans.
Rzeznik, known for his distinct voice on hits like “Iris” and “Black Balloon,” took the opportunity to personally apologize to the band’s South African fans, saying, “I’m truly sorry I can’t be there.” He went on to explain his diagnosis, revealing that after seeking medical help, he was advised to rest and recover. “My doctor has advised rest and recovery,” he explained. “Thank you for your understanding—we’ll make it worth the wait when we return in March 2025!”
The timing of the announcement is particularly disappointing for the band, who had been eagerly anticipating their South Africa shows from December 4-7. Fans had been buzzing with excitement for the Goo Goo Dolls’ first performances in the country, but now they will have to wait a few more months to see the band live. The rescheduled dates are March 25 in Cape Town, March 27 in Durban, and March 29 in Pretoria.
“We’re working on getting back down there as fast as we can,” Rzeznik continued, assuring fans that the band would make it up to them with an unforgettable experience when they return. “I will keep you informed about that, and I’m just really sorry we couldn’t do that.”
In an effort to reassure ticket holders, the band confirmed that all tickets purchased for the original dates would remain valid for the new dates, and fans would receive additional information on how to manage their reservations.
Despite this setback, the Goo Goo Dolls are still scheduled to perform in Naples, Florida, in mid-December, before continuing their tour into 2024. Along with their rescheduled South Africa shows, the band is set to embark on a February tour of Australia, followed by their highly anticipated Summer Anthem Tour across the U.S. in July. Fans can expect to hear classic hits like “Iris” and “Slide,” as well as new material from their upcoming album. Dashboard Confessional will be joining the Goo Goo Dolls on the Summer Anthem Tour, adding to the excitement for the upcoming dates.
For now, Rzeznik’s health remains the band’s top priority, and fans are rallying around the frontman with messages of support as he recovers. Though the postponement is a disappointment, the Goo Goo Dolls have promised to make their eventual return to South Africa well worth the wait.
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