Sad news for Janet Jackson fans who were looking forward to seeing the pop icon perform. DStv Delicious Festival organisers announced on Tuesday night that Jackson would not attend South Africa for this weekend’s festival.
The singer’s attendance was called into question following the death of her older brother Tito Jackson. He died over the weekend at the age of 70.
Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela shared the news on X (formerly Twitter) via a statement issued by festival organisers.
JUST IN:
Janet Jackson will not be coming to South Africa
Following the passing of her brother Tito Jackson, Janet Jackson will unfortunately not be able to come to Mzansi to perform at the scheduled DStv Delicious Festival this weekend on Saturday. #KgopoloReports… pic.twitter.com/9e0vB3SB78
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) September 17, 2024
Jackson’s management said she unfortunately had to cancel her performance but plans to return to South Africa next year.
Now that Saturday’s headline performance slot is open, the festival management team is working hard to find an “international replacement.”
Festivalgoers who want to change their tickets to Sunday can do so on the Ticketmaster website.
Most fans shared their disappointment while others suggested replacements for Jackson. “Sexxy Redd is free,” joked an X user. Another said: “Someone check on Chris Brown’s availability.”
Diehard Janet Jackson fans were unhappy with the outcome and asked about ticket refunds. In response to one tweet, another wrote: “I ain’t paying that much just to see local acts. Plus, it’s cold on Saturday.”
The DStv Delicious Festival takes place this weekend in Johannesburg. Jackson was set to headline Saturday’s concert followed by Thandiswa Mazwai and G Force. Jill Scott will headline Sunday’s performance.
Words: Fame Frenzy
