Pop sensation Ava Max has stunned fans worldwide by abruptly cancelling her highly anticipated "Don't Click Play" tour, just two weeks after the dates were announced. The tour, which was set to span North America, the United Kingdom, and Europe from early September through mid-November 2025, was intended to support her upcoming third studio album of the same name, scheduled for release on August 22.
The 31-year-old singer took to Instagram on July 3 to share the difficult decision with her 3.3 million followers. "Pushing back my tour is the most difficult decision I’ve had to make," she wrote, "but when I perform for you, it has to be of a standard that I’m happy with, and it’s just not there yet." Ava emphasized her passion for live performance, adding, "Being on stage is my favorite thing in the world. In order to put on a show that you all deserve, I need more time. I promise you all it will be worth the wait. I love you all and can’t wait to see you. SOON, I PROMISE."
The cancellation has left many fans disappointed and confused. Some learned about the tour's demise through Ticketmaster, where all dates are now listed as cancelled, sparking speculation about the reasons behind the decision. Reddit users reported receiving cancellation notices from Ticketmaster before Ava's official announcement, leading to rumors about poor ticket sales. However, Ava’s statement focused solely on her commitment to quality and readiness rather than commercial factors.
The tour was originally set to kick off on September 3 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles and include 15 shows across North America, the UK, and Europe. Notable stops included a concert at the O2 Academy Brixton in London on October 25 and Canadian dates at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, on September 28 and Casino at Great Canadian Toronto on October 1. A Boston show at MGM Music Hall at Fenway was also among the cancelled performances.
In the wake of the cancellation, Ava removed all promotional materials and tour posters from her social media platforms, and her official website no longer lists any show dates under the tour section. The abrupt nature of the cancellation caught many fans off guard, leading to a mix of reactions online. While some, like fan Jakub, expressed frustration and disappointment—"Why is the tour cancelled???? I’m really disappointed!!!!!"—others showed understanding. One user, @vesi4a, wrote, "We bought tickets, my daughter will be disappointed but we will wait! The whole fam loves you Ava." Another fan from Germany, @jason.krd, urged her not to forget her international supporters: "Germany still loves you Ava take your time but don‘t forget to come back love you so so much."
Ava Max has previously spoken about the importance of being mentally and emotionally prepared before going on stage. During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, she revealed that she carves out "Ava time" just before performances to meditate and center herself. "Everyone is putting my wires on, my mic pack and everything and then I have 15 minutes to myself where I meditate and close my eyes so I can remember my name and what I’m singing," she explained. "I really thrive through the chaos, I love it, so I’m actually more comfortable on tour than at home lately – but I still need my Ava time carved in." This insight sheds light on her decision to delay the tour, underscoring her desire to deliver a show that meets her personal standards and fans' expectations.
Her upcoming album "Don't Click Play" has already introduced fans to several singles, including "Wet," "Hot American Dream," "Lovin' Myself," and "Lost Your Faith." These tracks have generated excitement for the full release, which promises to showcase Ava’s evolving sound and artistry. The cancellation of the tour, while disappointing, reflects her commitment to ensuring the live experience matches the quality of her studio work.
Ava Max first rose to international fame with her 2018 hit "Sweet but Psycho," which remains a fan favorite and has amassed over 1.8 billion streams on Spotify. Other hits like "Kings & Queens" and her collaboration with Tiësto, "The Motto," have cemented her status as a pop powerhouse. Fans had eagerly anticipated seeing her perform these and new songs live, making the cancellation all the more poignant.
The music industry has seen its share of tour cancellations, often due to health issues, logistical challenges, or unforeseen circumstances. However, Ava’s transparent communication about wanting to uphold a high standard for her performances highlights a different kind of dedication. It’s a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour, artists strive to connect authentically with their audiences and deliver memorable experiences.
As the "Don't Click Play" album release approaches, fans remain hopeful that Ava Max will return to the stage soon, better prepared and ready to dazzle. For now, her message is clear: quality over speed. As she promised, the wait will be worth it.
