Tim McGraw Steps Back to Heal: Country Icon Cancels Colorado Show Amid Back Surgery Recovery
Country music legend Tim McGraw has made the difficult decision to withdraw from an upcoming concert in Fort Collins, Colorado, as he continues to recover from recent back surgery.
McGraw was originally scheduled to headline the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Last Cowboy Standing event on July 21. However, on June 23, PBR CEO Sean Gleason confirmed that the Grammy-winning star will be unable to take the stage as planned. In his place, country-rock band Cross Canadian Ragweed will reunite for a special performance.
“Cross Canadian Ragweed will step in for Tim McGraw as he recovers from back surgery to open the Last Cowboy Standing Show — and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” Gleason shared. “The band is back together and ready to bring the house down in an unforgettable night of world-class music and the greatest bull riding on earth. We’re sending our very best to Tim for a quick recovery.”
Though McGraw’s camp has not released further details about the procedure or recovery timeline, a joint statement from Colorado State University and PBR indicated the surgery happened recently. Ticket holders who were hoping to see McGraw perform will be offered full refunds.
This cancellation follows earlier reports that McGraw had stepped away from a planned Netflix rodeo drama due to ongoing health issues. In a candid moment on Tracy Lawrence’s TL’s Road House podcast this May, McGraw opened up about the toll his body has taken after a long and active career.
“After double knee replacements, three back surgeries, a torn rotator cuff, and a ruptured disc… there were times this year I thought this might be it,” he admitted. “This might be time to hang it up.”
Despite the setbacks, McGraw shared that he remains committed to his health. He continues to train carefully and methodically, incorporating recovery techniques like cold plunges, infrared saunas, and therapeutic massages.
McGraw’s latest album, Standing Room Only, released in August 2023, reflects the introspection and resilience that have come to define him — both as an artist and as a man. His performance in the Paramount+ series 1883 further solidified his presence in both music and television.
Though fans may be disappointed by this latest change, many are rallying behind McGraw, sending well-wishes and hoping to see him back on stage when the time is right.