BRET MICHAELS has opened up about his recent show cancellation, sharing a heartfelt message that focuses on positivity, mental reset, and leaning on loved ones during difficult moments. The POISON frontman released the statement on Instagram, offering fans encouragement even while keeping the specific struggles he’s facing private.
Although Michaels did not detail the exact circumstances behind the sudden postponement, he made it clear that he has been navigating personal challenges. Instead of dwelling on the difficulties, however, he emphasized the importance of staying grounded, surrounding himself with uplifting people, and maintaining a mindset that pushes back against negativity.
He wrote:
“Always keep great memories and reminders around you – good for purpose, good for the soul.”
Michaels paired that message with reflections on gratitude, companionship, and relying on friendships when life becomes overwhelming. The update arrived during what he called a “Motivational Monday,” a theme that fit perfectly with the encouraging tone of his statement.
He continued:
“On this Motivational Monday, I focus on companionship, friendship, and surrounding yourself with good people, and trying to keep so positive during adversity that it kicks negative’s a-s.”
The statement reveals that Michaels has been dealing with what he described as a “roller coaster ride” recently. While he did not elaborate on health specifics or personal setbacks, he acknowledged that he needed time to rest and reset — something he said he finally listened to.
“After taking a few days to reset and listening to my body telling me to get it together, taking a bit of a roller coaster ride recently, the one thing that came through was a positive state of mind. Hope, faith, love – they work.”
BRET MICHAELS Prioritizes Family, Fun, and Simple Joys
Beyond health and mindset, Michaels used the statement to reflect on the things that bring him genuine happiness. Rather than focusing solely on the stage or the pressures that come with performing, he highlighted the everyday moments that matter most.
He shared:
“From birth until now, it’s just as important for me to hang out with family and friends, race go karts or have a wiffleball contest on an old dirt baseball field.”
For the longtime rocker, those experiences are not distractions from his work — they are essential components of a meaningful life. Michaels made it clear that these simple joys hold as much value as delivering high-energy performances for fans.
He added:
“Things of this nature are just as important as putting together performances and great shows, I give 100% to everything I do and even enjoy the challenges.”
This perspective reflects a healthier, more balanced approach to life, especially given the health concerns he has faced in recent years. As someone who has endured diabetes, past hospitalizations, and other medical scares, Michaels has long been open about the need to take care of himself while continuing his career.
Show Postponement and Tour Uncertainty
The show Michaels postponed was originally scheduled for November 15 but has now been rescheduled to May 16, 2026. While postponements are not uncommon, this particular delay coincides with broader uncertainty surrounding POISON’s touring plans for the near future.
Just days before Michaels’ statement, drummer RIKKI ROCKETT publicly revealed that the band’s anticipated 2026 40th-anniversary tour had hit a wall — with Michaels as the deciding factor.
Rockett explained:
“I’ll set the record straight as far as Poison touring: at this point in time, there is nothing on the books for a 2026 40th-anniversary tour.”
He elaborated by discussing how the band — including C.C. DeVille and BOBBY DALL — had agreed to a proposed tour contract. However, Michaels had not committed to it.
According to Rockett:
“I said it months ago when we got presented a contract from Live Nation to go on tour next year. C.C., Bobby and I agreed. We thought it was great. We thought the money was great. We thought the lay of the land looked great. Then Bret looked at it and has not agreed to anything. So literally that is where we’re at.”
Rockett’s comments shed light on the internal challenges facing the group as they approach a milestone year. Although the band has toured successfully together many times, this latest development suggests a pause — one that Michaels’ current focus on health and mindset appears to reinforce.
Health and Well-Being Take Center Stage
While Michaels did not directly respond to Rockett’s claims in his Instagram post, the tone of his message makes one thing clear: he is prioritizing well-being, balance, and personal stability above all else. This shift comes at a time when many veteran artists are reevaluating their touring schedules and careers, especially after decades on the road.
Michaels’ decision to take a few days to rest signals a healthier and more measured approach, especially considering his history of medical emergencies. His insistence on staying positive, surrounding himself with the right people, and listening to his body suggests he is taking a proactive and intentional step back, rather than pushing himself beyond his limits.
For fans, his message serves as both reassurance and inspiration — a reminder that even the most energetic and upbeat performers need time to breathe, recover, and reflect.
A Message Rooted in Hope and Human Connection
Ultimately, Michaels’ statement is far more than an explanation for a canceled show. It’s a broader message about resilience, self-care, and surrounding yourself with supportive people when life becomes chaotic. His words encourage fans to value meaningful relationships and maintain hope, even when circumstances become overwhelming.
Whether or not POISON tours in the near future remains uncertain. Yet Michaels’ reminder that “hope, faith, love – they work” is a powerful sentiment for anyone navigating difficult times.
And for now, the frontman appears focused on health, family, and the positivity he needs to carry forward — both onstage and in life.
