Brian May declares Queen will never tour the US again citing extreme danger

Brian May says Queen will not tour US again

Brian May has said Queen will never tour the United States again because it is “too dangerous.” The 78-year-old guitarist made this clear in January 2026 while speaking to the Daily Mail about the band’s future touring plans.

His words shocked many fans, especially in America, where Queen built much of its global success. According to May, safety concerns now outweigh nostalgia, history, and demand from US audiences, even though the band still feels deep affection for American fans.

Safety fears now guide Queen touring decisions

Following his announcement, Brian May explained that safety is now the biggest factor in deciding where Queen might perform. He said, “America is a dangerous place at the moment, so you have to take that into account.” These concerns apply to both the band and their crews.

Queen built its American profile in the 1970s and reached peak commercial success in the United States with albums such as Sheer Heart Attack in 1974 and The Game in 1980, but May said current safety concerns make returning to large-scale US touring unwise for now.

Brian May says America is not what it was

Building on safety concerns, May spoke emotionally about how the country has changed. He said, “It’s very sad because I feel like Queen grew up in America and we love it, but it’s not what it was.” The comment reflects disappointment, not anger.

He added, “Everyone is thinking twice about going there at the moment.” This shows Queen’s stance is part of a wider hesitation shared by other artists and travelers, not a sudden or isolated reaction.

Other artists also canceled US tours recently

Queen’s decision connects to a larger trend. British dance star Piri cited ‘what’s going on in the US right now’ when she canceled planned US dates in late January 2026, according to press coverage. Hungarian pianist András Schiff also withdrew from US concerts for moral reasons.

Reports say Bad Bunny did not include United States dates on a recent world tour in part because of concerns about immigration enforcement and the possible presence of ICE agents at concerts, according to music industry reporting.

Queen last toured the US in 2023

Before this decision, Queen last toured the United States in 2023 with Adam Lambert as lead singer. These shows were part of the long-running “Queen + Adam Lambert” partnership that began in 2012.

Those concerts were well attended and celebrated by fans. However, despite that success, Brian May’s 2026 comments confirm that 2023 will likely remain Queen’s final US tour appearance.

Rhapsody Tour ended Queen’s live run

Queen officially ended their Rhapsody Tour in 2024. The tour ran from 2019 to 2024 and covered Europe, Asia, and North America. It was one of the band’s longest and most ambitious live projects.

Since the tour ended, Queen has been on a break from performing. May has said that when, or if, they return to the stage is “unknown,” and that future shows will be decided carefully, day by day.

America played a huge role in Queen’s rise

Queen’s US history makes this decision especially meaningful. The band broke through in America with their 1974 album Sheer Heart Attack. They later earned five straight US Top 10 albums.

In 1980, The Game hit No. 1 in the US, powered by “Another One Bites the Dust” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” These successes helped turn Queen into a worldwide stadium act.

Classic US concerts shaped Queen legacy

Queen performed many legendary shows in the US in the 1970s and 1980s. Images of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor on American stages became iconic moments in rock history.

Cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, and New York played key roles in Queen’s touring story. These performances helped cement their reputation as one of the most powerful live bands of all time.

Glastonbury refusal shows firm principles

Outside the US, Brian May has also refused to play at the Glastonbury Festival. He said he would not perform there due to political differences with the festival’s leadership.

Specifically, May opposes badger culling, which he links to farming practices supported by Glastonbury’s organizers. He stated clearly that unless those views change, Queen will not appear at the festival.

Animal rights activism shapes May decisions

Brian May is a long-time animal rights activist and founded the Save Me Trust to protect foxes and badgers. His beliefs strongly influence where and how he chooses to perform.

He previously resigned as vice president of the RSPCA, calling welfare standards under its “assured” farming scheme “appalling.” These actions show that May’s touring choices align closely with his personal values.

Queen future remains open but cautious

Despite ruling out US touring, May has not closed the door on Queen entirely. He said, “Never say never about not coming back,” hinting at possible future projects.

He also teased new music, saying “the rebuild of Queen Two is coming back.” However, any return will be careful, limited, and shaped by safety, health, and personal priorities.

If you want to explore the latest updates, see Ludacris exits ‘Rock the Country’ festival after public outcry.

Queen US touring ends with a historic pause

Looking back, Brian May’s statement marks a historic pause in Queen’s relationship with the United States. A country that helped shape their sound and success is now considered too risky for live shows. This decision is based on safety fears, political tension, and changing travel realities.

For fans, it closes a powerful chapter that began in the 1970s and lasted over five decades. Queen’s music still connects millions, even without future US concerts planned.

If you want to explore the controversy, see Jelly Roll faces backlash for joining Kid Rock’s country music festival.

If you grew up with Queen or saw them live in America, how does this decision make you feel? Share your memories or thoughts in the comments and let other fans hear your story.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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