Fans of Jeff Lynne’s ELO were left in the lurch at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena after the concert was abruptly cancelled just moments before the band was set to take the stage. A multitude of ticketholders were left in dismay when they were told that tonight’s show would not proceed.

Jeff Lynne’s ELO broke the news on X, stating the gig was called off “due to illness” and expressing that Jeff was “devastated” to be unable to perform. “Unfortunately, due to illness, tonight’s scheduled performance of Jeff Lynne’s ELO at the Co-op Live will not be going ahead. Jeff is devastated that he cannot perform this evening,” they announced.

“More information will become available as soon as possible. For refunds, please go to your point of purchase.”

Disheartened fans quickly voiced their frustration on social media, with one sharing: “Tonight’s ELO concert cancelled at 8.10 pm. Jeff Lynne too ill. Devastated. Hope he’s ok. Had tickets since December.”

Another fan exclaimed: “THEY CANCELLED ELO TONIGHT BECAUSE JEFF IS ILL? YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS UP WE’RE ALL BEING BOOTED OUT.” 

A third fan lamented: “Jeff Lynne’s ELO cancelling 12 MINUTES before they’re due on stage. That’s tragic.” 

The band had successfully completed the first night of their Manchester stint yesterday, during which Jeff disclosed that he had injured his hand in London.

“I was in London, and a taxi dashed off from where he was coming from and smashed my hand. It really hurt at the time. That’s why I haven’t got a guitar – I normally would have,” he recounted.

A concertgoer who attended Wednesday night’s performance spoke to The Mirror about Jeff’s apparent struggle on stage due to an injury.

“At the start of the set he came on and couldn’t play the guitar because he has injured his hand.

“He sounded shaky to begin with but his singing and energy picked up and was great until the last 10 minutes of the show.

“A chair was brought onto the stage and he had to sit down to sing the last few songs, he appeared to be unsteady on his feet at the end and was helped off the stage by staff.

“He really wasn’t well, it was obvious to fans at the gig he wasn’t himself and it is sad to see.”