Legendary performer Patti Smith was forced to cancel a recent concert after collapsing onstage—but she has since assured fans that she’s doing “fine.”
Smith, 78, was performing with the group Soundwalk Collective in Brazil on Wednesday, Jan. 29, when she fell, according to The Guardian. She was removed from the stage in a wheelchair, returning shortly thereafter to address the crowd.
“Unfortunately, I got sick, and the doctor said I can’t finish,” she said, still sitting in the wheelchair. “So we will have to figure something out. And I feel very badly.”
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Smith, who reportedly suffered from a severe migraine for several days, took to Instagram herself on Thursday, Jan. 30, to update followers on her condition.
“This is letting everyone know that I am fine,” the “Gloria” singer wrote.
“A grossly exaggerated account is being spread by the press and social media,” she continued. “I had some post migraine dizziness. Had a small incident, left the stage, and returned 10 minutes later and talked to the people, told them I was fine and sang them Wing and Because the night.”
Smith added, “I was checked out by an excellent Doctor and was absolutely fine. Please do not accept any other story. With all the strife in the world, this explainable incident does not merit so much attention. Thank you everyone for your concern. Trust me I am fine.”
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Smith’s fans were quick to show their support in the comments.
“Blessings and love for your continued well being dear Patti!” wrote one person.
“Take care of yourself and rest when you can❤️ we all love you,” added a second commenter.
“We love you, patti!! glad to know everything is fine ❤️,” someone else chimed in.
Journalist Micheline Alves, who was seated in one of the front rows at the show in Brazil, told The Associated Press that Smith “clearly felt dizzy” before collapsing.
“She started moving backward and fell in a way—I think she tried to support herself on the microphone or the music stand,” Alves said. “And everything fell on top of her. It was a bizarre scene.”
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