81-year-old singer cancels major event, leaving fans worried over undisclosed reason

For decades, this artist has been more than just a singer—she’s been an icon, her voice woven into the soundtrack of countless lives.

That’s why news of her pulling out of a headline performance and the naming ceremony for Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship, Star of the Seas, has caught the attention of fans worldwide.

At 81, she still commands the stage like few can, making her sudden absence from such a high-profile event all the more concerning.


Diana was set to christen the Star of the Seas as its 'godmother'—a time-honoured maritime tradition—on 20 August, and kick off a three-day showcase cruise with an exceptional performance.

The event was to be a glittering affair, with the ship embarking from Port Canaveral, Florida, and making its way to the Bahamas.


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Diana Ross, 81, has withdrawn from her upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise ship naming and performance, prompting fans' concern over the unexplained decision. Credit: Reddit


Fans and cruise-goers alike were eagerly awaiting the chance to see the Motown icon in action.

But just weeks before the event, Diana’s representatives released a statement: 'Due to unforeseen circumstances, Diana Ross will be unable to appear.'

No further details were given, and the cruise line expressed its disappointment, promising to announce a new godmother soon.


Whenever a beloved star cancels an appearance, especially at Diana’s age, fans naturally worry.

Social media was abuzz with speculation about her health, with many expressing hope that the singer is simply taking time to rest and recharge.

Adding to the mystery, Diana is still scheduled to begin her 'Beautiful Love' U.S. tour on 16 August, just days before the cruise event she cancelled.

The tour will see her perform in cities across America, from Saratoga, California, to Palm Springs in December.

This has left some fans scratching their heads—if she’s well enough to tour, why pull out of the cruise?


In a recent interview, Diana opened up about her current priorities: 'Health and well-being. And my family is equally important to me.

I like staying busy. Because I love what I do, it keeps me grounded. I’m swimming a lot lately to stay flexible.

I must get my sleep, which is important to me. I do my best to eat well, but I do like Häagen-Dazs ice cream.'

It’s clear that, even at 81, Diana is mindful of her health and the importance of balance.

She also shared that she’d invited her family to join her on the cruise, highlighting how much she values time with her five children and eight grandchildren.


Diana Ross’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. Rising to fame as the lead singer of The Supremes—one of the world’s best-selling girl groups—she helped define the sound of the 1960s with hits like 'You Can’t Hurry Love' and 'Where Did Our Love Go.'

Her solo career soared in the 1970s, producing classics such as 'Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,' 'Endless Love,' and 'Chain Reaction.'

She’s been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards and has received the Lifetime Achievement Award twice: once as a solo artist in 2012, and again in 2023 as a member of The Supremes.

Her influence on music, fashion, and culture is immeasurable.

For those unfamiliar, the role of a ship’s godmother is a big deal in the cruise world.


The godmother is seen as a good luck charm, bestowing blessings and safe travels on the vessel and its passengers.

Past godmothers have included royalty, celebrities, and philanthropists.

Diana’s selection was a nod to her enduring star power and ability to bring people together—something cruise lines value as much as her fans do.

While Diana’s absence from the Star of the Seas event is disappointing, her upcoming tour suggests she’s not stepping away from the spotlight just yet.

Her message to fans on Instagram was upbeat: 'It’s good to be back home. The Beautiful Love Tour is coming to cities across the U.S. for unforgettable nights filled with music, memories, and joy.'


Her positive outlook on aging is inspiring: 'The love of what I do keeps me grounded, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine... I have been very blessed in my life. I love what I do. I love my family. I love my life. I’m a happy person.'

Diana’s story is a timely reminder that even icons need to put their health and family first.

As we age, it’s important to listen to our bodies, prioritise well-being, and cherish time with loved ones.

And if that means missing a big event or two, so be it—there’s always another stage, another song, and another adventure around the corner.
Key Takeaways
  • Diana Ross, 81, has pulled out of her upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise ship naming and performance, sparking health concerns among fans.
  • The cruise line will soon announce a new 'godmother' to replace Ross, who was set to celebrate the launch of the Star of the Seas ship this month.
  • Despite the cancellation, Ross is still planning to begin her 'Beautiful Love' U.S. tour on 16 August and says she's focused on her health, family and staying active.
  • Ross, famous as a member of The Supremes and for her solo hits, recently shared that a love for her work and family keeps her happy and grounded in her 80s.
Have you ever had to cancel plans to look after your health or spend time with family? Are you a Diana Ross fan with a favourite memory or song? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below.

Read more: ‘Not good’: Rocker’s fiancée falls overboard after reported argument
 

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