AMERICAN rock band The All-American Rejects have been forced to cancel a string a gigs following a “sudden family loss”.
The iconic group were all set to be a part of the line up for Good Things 2025, a musical festival being in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane from December 5 to 7.
The alternative music festival has been running since 2018 and has featured performances from Fall Out Boy, The Offspring and Violent Soho.
Sharing the news in a statement on the festival’s website, the band revealed: “We’re heartbroken to share that due to a sudden family loss, we won’t be able to make it to Australia as planned.
“This has been an incredibly difficult moment for us, and as much as it devastates us to miss such a great opportunity to reconnect with our Australian fans, family has to come first.
“Thank you for your understanding, your patience, and all the love you continue to give this band.
“We’ll make it up to you as soon as we’re able,” they concluded.
The band aren’t the only ones to pull out of the festival as hardcore punk band Knocked Loose also dropped out last minute, with their own family loss.
Revealing the news in their own statement, they expressed: “Anyone familiar with this band knows we do not take cancelling shows lightly; but family will always come first.”
“We are already planning our return and cannot wait to be back as soon as possible. Love you all.”
Show organisers announced that Sydney-based pop punk band Stand Atlantic and metalcore group Alpha Wolf will be filling their slots.
They penned: “Due to the extensive logistics involved with trucking, flights, accommodation, and stage production for these bands across three days, we’re unable to adjust the timetable.
“Our thoughts are with the band and their families during this time. We want to also acknowledge our fellow artists and colleagues who feel this absence alongside us.
“While life can throw unexpected hurdles our way, the show will go on, and this weekend, we’ll come together as one community to create a great experience.
“We appreciate your understanding and continued support. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for you all.”
The All-American Rejects fans were left understandably gutted as they flocked to X to share their reactions.
One devastated fan penned: “All American Rejects was the main reason I bought tickets.”
Another person slammed: “Knocked Loose and All American Rejects just pulled out of Good Things Festival, HUH what the f**k.”
Somebody else commented: “Omfg NO I was so excited to see All American Rejects.”
While a fourth added: “Bought plane tickets to Melbourne to see All American Rejects with my friends and the show got cancelled…. Sob.”
The legendary band is comprised of members Tyson Ritter, Nick Wheeler, Mike Kennerty and Chris Gaylor.
Formed in 1999 in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the group have sold over 12 million albums worldwide.
