Rod Stewart pauses Utah show to use oxygen after fainting

Concern for Rod Stewart’s health surfaced again after the 81-year-old rock legend paused his concert in West Valley City, Utah, on Friday night to use an oxygen tank after nearly fainting onstage.

The incident occurred at the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre. Video footage showed Stewart leaning on instruments and stage equipment for support before staff brought out an oxygen tank. After taking several deep breaths, he addressed the crowd, telling them he had nearly fainted but that the show must go on. He asked the audience if they would mind if he sat down for the remainder of the performance, which he completed from a chair.

Some observers noted that the venue is located approximately 4,300 feet above sea level, suggesting the altitude and thinner air may have contributed to his breathing difficulties.

This onstage episode follows a series of recent health-related cancellations. Stewart was forced to cancel a concert in Chula Vista, California, on June 12, just hours before showtime, due to an acute upper respiratory infection that resulted in laryngitis. In a statement shared at the time, he said that following treatment he was feeling better but his voice was not. He...