It was supposed to be his big solo debut - now the stage remains empty for the time being. Gabriel Kelly (25) has canceled his tour planned for September 2026. The reason is as sober as it is painful: simply too few tickets were sold for the scheduled dates. In a visibly emotional video message on Instagram, the singer addressed his fans directly.
"Unfortunately, I'm not the only one"
The disappointment was written all over his face. "I don't want to believe it, we were already in the middle of tour rehearsals, the setlist is ready", he explains in the clip.
In his accompanying written statement, Kelly put the cancellation into a broader context. "Unfortunately, the concerts had to be canceled because there weren't enough ticket sales overall for the planned dates", he wrote on Instagram. "This is a problem that currently affects many smaller artists - and unfortunately I'm not the only one affected by it."
The anticipation had been huge: "I had this feeling that it could really take off. [...] I was so incredibly excited about this tour and had already mentally prepared myself to see you all live. It makes me truly sorry that it's not going to be the way I had hoped." Kelly also openly admitted in the clip that his "Let's Dance" victory and his large reach on social media don't automatically translate into sold tickets.
Rostock remains
However, his calendar isn't completely empty. One date remains: On September 19, Kelly will be on stage in Rostock - as a home game. "Rostock is supposed to be our homecoming concert, right where we come together again", he announced on Instagram. "I really, really hope that some of you can make it there and we can turn it into something special together."
Fans who have already purchased tickets for the canceled shows should contact their respective ticket providers. Information about the refund process will generally also be provided via email, according to Kelly.
Fighting spirit despite setback
Nevertheless, the son of Kelly Family star Angelo Kelly (44) doesn't want to let it get him down. He wants to understand the setback as a lesson and continue making music. His plan for the next two to three years: focus primarily on festival performances to gradually build up a live audience.
In the end, Kelly struck a conciliatory tone. "When one door closes, another one opens somewhere. Everything will work out", said the 25-year-old.
Comfort from father and former dance partner
Gabriel is receiving support from his closest circle. Under the video, father Angelo commented with encouraging words: "We love you and are very proud of you", he wrote. His former "Let's Dance" dance partner Malika Dzumaev (35) also found comforting words: "I'm so sorry, Gabriel. I know how much you were looking forward to it and how much it means to you. Sending you a big hug! Something beautiful will come again, I'm sure of it."
