Is James Bourne Really Sick After Quitting the Tour?

Busted's James Bourne has revealed he is “really sick” and has been forced to step down from the highly anticipated Busted Vs McFly tour, just a day before it was set to begin. In an Instagram post, he expressed his disappointment in not being able to perform, while his bandmates have shown their unwavering support during this challenging time.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• James Bourne stepped down from the Busted Vs McFly tour due to health issues.
• His bandmates have expressed support and solidarity during this time.
• The first show took place without him, marking a significant moment for the band.
• James hopes to return to performing once his health improves.
• The band brought his brother Chris on stage to fill in during the tour.

Bourne's Health Announcement

James Bourne's announcement came as a shock to fans and the music community alike. He disclosed his condition only a day before the tour's kick-off, expressing his excitement for the event but ultimately prioritising his health. He stated, "I’m really sorry to say that over the last 8 days it has become clear that I am not in good enough health to play these shows."

Support from Bandmates

During the first concert in Birmingham, bandmate Matt Willis addressed the audience regarding James' absence. Matt conveyed the seriousness of Bourne's condition, saying, “He’s really f***ing sick, and we love him and we miss him.” The crowd responded with cheers, showcasing their support for Bourne.

Decision to Continue the Tour

Despite Bourne's absence, Willis explained that the band decided to proceed with the tour. He mentioned how the decision was made collectively, stating, “We were like ‘James, what do you want to do about this? We’ve got a tour, should we do it or not do it?’ and he told us to do it.” The band had to find a temporary replacement to fill in for Bourne during performances, with his younger brother Chris stepping in.

What’s Next for James Bourne?

James Bourne has been candid about his health issues, noting that there is still a lot of information he doesn’t have about his condition. He affirmed that he is focusing on medical treatment for now and that his bandmates and management are fully supportive of this decision. He remains optimistic about returning to the stage in the future, saying, “I really hope I can be in a position to come back further down the line.”

Impact on the Tour

The Busted Vs McFly tour is a significant event for fans of both bands. Busted, known for their catchy pop-rock hits, is celebrating their comeback alongside McFly. The absence of one of their key members adds an emotional layer to the performances. Fans are hopeful for Bourne's speedy recovery while still looking forward to the shows ahead.

Community Response

The fan response has been overwhelmingly supportive. Many took to social media to express their concern for Bourne and send well-wishes for his recovery. The camaraderie among band members and the support from fans exemplifies the strong community ties within the pop music genre.

Health Focus in the Music Industry

This incident highlights the importance of prioritising health, especially in the demanding world of music tours. Artists often face immense pressure to perform, but Bourne’s situation serves as a reminder that health should always come first. The music industry has seen similar situations in recent years, where artists have had to step back for health reasons.

Conclusion

As Busted continues their tour, the focus remains on James Bourne’s health. His decision to step down has not only set a precedent for self-care in the industry but has also reinforced the bond between bandmates and fans. Everyone is looking forward to Bourne’s return and is committed to making the tour a memorable experience in his absence.

FAQs

What health issues is James Bourne facing?

James Bourne has not disclosed specific details about his health issues but has indicated that he is not well enough to perform. He is currently focusing on his medical treatment.

Who is filling in for James Bourne during the tour?

James Bourne's younger brother, Chris, has stepped in to fill his spot during the Busted Vs McFly tour while Bourne focuses on his health.

When did the Busted Vs McFly tour begin?

The Busted Vs McFly tour was set to kick off on 3 October 2023, but James Bourne had to withdraw just a day before the first show due to health concerns.

What did Matt Willis say about James Bourne's absence?

Matt Willis expressed the band's love and concern for James, stating, "He’s really f***ing sick, and we love him and we miss him," during the first concert without him.

Will James Bourne return to the tour?

James Bourne is hopeful about returning to perform once his health improves, stating that he misses being on stage and looks forward to joining his bandmates again.