Full Breakdown
Steve Martin Cancels Comedy Shows Due to COVID-19 Diagnosis
9/21/2025, 11:17:30 AM
Overview of Cancellations
Steve Martin, the 80-year-old comedian and actor, has canceled two performances in his comedy tour with co-star Martin Short after testing positive for COVID-19. The shows, scheduled for September 19 and 20 at The Dome in Virginia Beach and Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront in Richmond, Virginia, were announced as canceled on Martin's social media and official website. The announcement emphasized that the decision was made "out of an abundance of caution," and refunds will be available for ticket buyers.
Official Statements & Responses
In his Instagram post, Martin expressed regret over the cancellations, stating, “Dear Virginia Beach and Richmond. Sadly, I have come down with Covid. I can’t possibly do the shows that you deserve. So Marty and I must cancel tonight & tomorrow. But we will return under better circumstances.” He humorously added a photo of his positive COVID test with the caption, “Hey! No flu!” Martin's website reiterated the cancellation and apologized for any inconvenience caused.
Background on the Tour
The canceled performances were part of Martin and Short's ongoing "Dukes of Funnytown!" tour, which has seen the duo perform together in various cities. Their next scheduled performance is set for October 4 in Hollywood, Florida, with additional dates planned through April 2026, including stops in Las Vegas, Boston, and Cleveland.
Previous COVID-19 Incidents
This is not the first time COVID-19 has impacted Martin and Short's tour. Earlier in 2025, Martin Short contracted the virus after attending the Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary special, leading to the rescheduling of shows in Knoxville and Durham. Martin humorously referred to this as the "SNL 50th Covid curse," highlighting the ongoing challenges the duo faces amid the pandemic.
Criticism & Opposition
While the cancellations have drawn sympathy from fans, some critics have noted the ongoing disruptions to live entertainment due to COVID-19. The pandemic's lingering effects on the arts and performance sectors continue to be a point of contention, with some arguing that the industry needs to adapt more robustly to prevent such cancellations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dear Virginia Beach and Richmond. Sadly, I have come down with Covid. I can’t possibly do the shows that you deserve. So Marty and I must cancel tonight & tomorrow.” — Steve Martin
- “Unfortunately, Steve Martin has come down with Covid, and out of an abundance of caution, the shows will be canceled.” — Steve Martin's official website
- “Hey! No flu!” — Steve Martin, alongside a photo of his COVID test
What's Next
Following the cancellation, Martin and Short are expected to resume their tour in Hollywood, Florida, on October 4. Fans eagerly await updates on rescheduled dates for the canceled Virginia shows, as well as the duo's continued performances throughout the remainder of the tour.
