Ringo Starr forced to cancel shows after falling ill

Beatles legend Ringo Starr has been forced to cancel some of his shows after falling ill amid a series of performances in the United States and Canada.

Founded in 1989, the band features Starr alongside musicians such as Steve Lukather, Edgar Winter, Colin Hay, Hamish Stuart, Warren Ham and Gregg Bissonette.

In a statement released prior to the gig, the Four Winds explained that the band were 'very disappointed to announce that they will not be able to play their show'.

"Ringo is sick and was hoping he could carry on, hence the late decision, but it has affected his voice so tonight's show, scheduled to begin in a few hours, is canceled," the statement on Facebook continued.

The casino went on to stress that the Beatles star 'does not have Covid', but did not give any further details about the musician's illness.

It added: "Ringo and the band send Peace and Love to all the fans who came out tonight and hope to see you all soon."

Another gig set to take place at the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel the following day was also called off due to Starr's illness.

A statement from the hotel explained the show was 'postponed', and that Starr had held out hope that he would be able to perform but had still not recovered from his illness.

The hotel assured a rescheduled date would be 'announced in the future', and that all original tickets would be honoured for the new date.

Guests planning to attend the gig at the Four Winds Casino have also been encouraged to 'hold on for more updates about your tickets', with the statement adding: "If you would like a refund, they are available through point of purchase. We will make an announcement when we have more information."

As Starr's illness was announced, a post on the official Ringo Starr Music Instagram page shared a picture of Starr posing with Gregg Bissonette in front of a plane, with a caption which read: "Gregg and Ringo on the tarmac heading for the next gig thank you thank you Toronto I send you peace and love. "

Fans have expressed their well-wishes for Starr in the wake of his illness, with a number those hoping to see him perform live wishing him a speedy recovery.

UNILAD has contacted representatives for Starr for comment.