Heart frontwoman Ann Wilson is cancer-free and returning to the band’s Royal Flush Tour in 2026, marking a triumphant comeback after undergoing surgery and preventive chemotherapy. Wilson, 75, announced in July 2024 that she had been diagnosed with cancer and would step back from touring to undergo treatment, but confirmed in September 2024 that chemotherapy was complete and she was ready to perform again.
Quick Facts
- Ann Wilson completed preventive chemotherapy in September 2024 after surgery earlier that summer
- Heart’s Royal Flush Tour resumed February 28, 2025 in Las Vegas with a 24-date run
- The band announced 13 new 2026 tour dates beginning February 15 in Duluth, Georgia
- Wilson told People magazine in February 2025 she felt “really strong” and “healthy” returning to the stage
In an exclusive interview with People magazine ahead of the February 28, 2025 Las Vegas kickoff, Wilson said she was “really excited” about returning to perform. “I feel really strong. I’ve been preparing and all that, and I’m healthy. I’m clear,” she said. “I’m a little nervous because I haven’t done it in a year, but I’m there.”
The exact type of cancer Wilson dealt with has not been publicly disclosed. She underwent surgery first, and doctors then recommended preventive chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. In September 2024, she announced the good news on social media, stating she was “finished with chemo and officially ready to get ready for the tour in 2025.”
Sister Nancy Wilson, the band’s guitarist and co-founder, told People that the unexpected diagnosis forced them to pivot mid-tour. “We were just getting into the big groove of it all and starting to really get a full head of steam with the whole tour,” Nancy said of the July 2024 postponement. “And then, we found ourselves on a plane the next day. We just went home and tried to figure out what was going on and make sure that Ann was okay.”
Heart announced the 2026 extension of the Royal Flush Tour in September 2025, with shows scheduled across the Midwest and Southeast. The newly announced leg runs through March 15, 2026, and features special guest Lucinda Williams on many dates. According to SurvivorNet, Wilson is “grateful to be still performing and cancer-free” as she continues touring at 75.
Sources
- People Magazine — Ann Wilson interview, February 28, 2025, confirming she felt healthy and ready to return to touring with Heart’s Royal Flush Tour
- SurvivorNet — Article published July 14, 2025, confirming Ann Wilson is cancer-free after completing preventive chemotherapy
- ABC News — July 2, 2024, coverage of Ann Wilson’s cancer diagnosis and Royal Flush Tour postponement
- The Seattle Times — September 26, 2024, report on Ann Wilson completing chemotherapy and readiness to tour in 2025
- Rock Cellar Magazine — September 16, 2025, announcement of Heart’s 2026 Royal Flush Tour dates beginning February 15
