Toby Keith's Cancer Diagnosis Prompts Ribfest Show Cancellation

WHEATON, IL — Toby Keith, who was set to perform at Ribfest June 17, announced via Twitter Sunday that he has been battling stomach cancer since fall of 2021. Ribfest organizers are currently seeking a replacement for Keith, who wrote that he needs "time to breathe, recover and relax."

Keith, 60, has undergone radiation, chemotherapy and surgery in the past six months, he said on Twitter.

"I am looking forward to spending this time with my family," Keith wrote. "But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can't wait."

Toby Keith was announced as Ribfest's headliner for June 17 in early May. Elle King will perform as the opening act for that night.

“We are very disappointed with the news of his cancellation, but our thoughts and prayers go out to Toby and his family as he faces a very difficult and challenging time in his life,” Bev Schafman, chairperson for Ribfest 2022, said in a statement.

Schafman added, “We are examining our options at the moment and intend to replace Toby Keith on our stage, and will announce our plans shortly. However, we stand with the millions of Toby Keith fans at this time and say, “Get well soon, Toby!”

Ribfest's website also included a statement about Keith Monday morning that read, in part, "Ribfest is actively seeking a replacement for Toby Keith to join Elle King on Friday, June 17. Instructions for refund requests will be available in the future."

Patch reached out to Ribfest organizers for comment and additional information early Monday. A subsequent email explained that the search for a performer to replace Keith is taking a lot of time and that details about refunds would be available via the Ribfest website.

Presented by the Exchange Club of Naperville, Ribfest will be held at DuPage County Fairgrounds June 17 through June 20.