Peter Kay has cancelled all of his forthcoming work commitments.
Peter Kay
The 44-year-old comedian was due to kick off a mammoth tour in April next year - his first on-the-road gig in eight years - and conclude in March 2019 but he's been forced to scrap all of the 100 dates "due to unforeseen family circumstances."
Taking to his social networking sites, he wrote in a statement: "Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects. This includes my upcoming stand-up tour, Dance for Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments.
"My sincerest apologies. The decision has not been taken lightly and I'm sure you'll understand that my family must always come first. I've always endeavoured to protect my family's privacy from the media. I hope that the media and the public will continue to respect our privacy at this time. Once again, I'm very sorry."
The statement went on to confirm that fans will be refunded for the Live Arena Tour - providing they contact their original point of purchase - as will those who want their money back for the Dance for Life show, but he did stress that it's a charity event.
The funny man last hit the road in 2010 when he toured 'The Tour That Doesn't Tour Tour... Now On Tour' - which broke the Guinness World Record for the biggest selling comedy tour of all time - and recently admitted he couldn't wait to get back on stage.
He said: "I really miss it. I know how lucky I am to be making television series and have really loved these past few years working on 'Car Share' but I miss doing stand-up. As terrifying as it is, when it works there's nothing more fun and exciting. Plus, a lot has happened in the last eight years, with Trump, Twitter and my Nan getting her front bush trimmed at the age of 96. I can't wait to get back up on stage."
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