“At this time I have to prioritize my health”: Bad Company’s Paul Rodgers drops out of this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony – after previously confirming reunion plans

Paul Rodgers Withdraws from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Ceremony

Paul Rodgers, vocalist and guitarist of Bad Company, has announced that he will not attend this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony due to health concerns. The musician was originally scheduled to reunite on stage with drummer Simon Kirke for the first time since 2019.

“My hope was to be at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and to perform for the fans, but at this time I have to prioritize my health,” Rodgers shared in a statement posted on the band’s official Instagram.

Rodgers explained that singing itself is not an issue, but the stress surrounding such events has taken a toll. He assured fans that Simon Kirke, together with several excellent musicians, will perform in his place.

“I have no problem singing, it’s the stress of everything else. Simon along with some outstanding musicians will be stepping in for me – guaranteed to rock.”

The Ceremony Lineup

The induction ceremony will take place this weekend at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Alongside Bad Company, the 2025 inductees include:

Cancelled Reunion

Simon Kirke, the band’s co-founder and drummer, had announced earlier that he and Rodgers would reunite for the performance. However, those plans have now been canceled because of Rodgers’ health limitations. This performance would have marked their first public appearance together in six years.

“I’m not at liberty to say which songs. I mean, quite honestly, I don’t give a shit,” Kirke previously told Gold Derby, referring to the setlist before the change in plans.

Author’s Summary

Paul Rodgers withdrew from the Rock Hall ceremony to safeguard his health, entrusting Simon Kirke and guest musicians to represent Bad Company on stage.

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Guitar World Guitar World — 2025-11-04

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