London Festival Cancels Final Night After ELO's Jeff Lynne Withdraws

LONDON (AP) — A 14-day music event taking place in downtown London has canceled its last evening following Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra withdrawing from the main performance on Sunday.

Lynne, 77, had been scheduled to perform with his band on Sunday at the BST Hyde Park festival but decided to step down on Saturday following medical recommendations due to a "systemic infection."

In a release, the festival coordinators mentioned that the gathering will "regrettably be canceled" and assured attendees they will receive refunds along with additional information from their respective ticket provider.

Stevie Wonder is set to perform on the London stage this Saturday night, marking the last event of the festival for 2025. The festival, which began on June 27, has featured artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Van Morrison, and Neil Young.

A U.S. rock group called The Doobie Brothers along with Steve Winwood were scheduled to play on Sunday before ELO took the stage as headliners.

Earlier, BST mentioned that Lynne was "devastated" at having to announce his inability to perform.

"Jeff has been dealing with a widespread infection and is now being treated by a group of physicians who have told him that performing is not feasible right now, and he won’t be able to move his performances to another date," the statement said.

"The band's heritage and dedication from his long-time supporters remain central to Jeff's thoughts right now—although he deeply regrets being unable to take the stage, he understands that he needs to concentrate on his well-being and recovery at this moment," it stated.

It followed the group, most famous for "Mr Blue Sky," withdrawing from a show at Manchester's Co-Op Live on July 10.

In 1970, the group originated in Birmingham with Lynne, versatile musician Roy Wood, and drummer Bev Bevan, initially disbanding in 1986. ELO gained recognition for blending orchestral elements, Beatles-inspired pop, and advanced rock stage presentations, later being honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

In 2014, Lynne brought the band back to life.