Fans claimed they were ‘booted out’ of the venue after being told the news

21:04, 10 Jul 2025Updated 21:41, 10 Jul 2025

Fans claimed they were 'booted out' of the venue after being told the newsFans claimed they were ‘booted out’ of the venue after being told the news(Image: @sleeptokem)

Jeff Lynne’s ELO fans were left devastated after being told his Co-op Live gig was suddenly cancelled at the last minute on Thursday night (July 10).

Ticketholders for the Over and Out tour claimed they were informed the performance would not be going ahead just minutes before the band was due to take to the stage.

Concerns were raised over how people could be refunded for their expenses, after also booking travel and accommodation. One social media post claimed a couple had spent over £1,000 to travel from Ireland for the show.

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In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Jeff Lynne’s ELO page revealed the show had been cancelled ‘due to illness’ and that Jeff was ‘devastated’ he was unable to perform.

“Unfortunately due to illness, tonight’s scheduled performance of Jeff Lynne’s ELO at the Co-op Live will not be going ahead. Jeff is devastated he cannot perform this evening.

“More information will become available as soon as possible. For refunds please go to your point of purchase.”

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The blow comes a night after Jeff Lynne performed his first of two shows at the venue in Manchester. An injury to his hand meant he was unable to take to the stage holding his guitar on Wednesday (July 9).

Jeff Lynne first took to the stage in Manchester on Wednesday (July 9)Jeff Lynne first took to the stage in Manchester on Wednesday (July 9)(Image: Carsten Windhorst)

“Tonight’s ELO concert cancelled at 8.10 pm. Jeff Lynne too ill. Devastated. Hope he’s ok. Had tickets since December,” one fan who had attended Co-op Live posted.

“Jeff Lynne’s ELO cancelling 12 MINUTES before they’re due on stage. That’s tragic,” posted another.

Fans flocked to social media after the announcement, which they claimed was made at around 8.15pm. They say they were told the show would not be going ahead as planned.

Another ticketholder claimed fans were being told to leave the venue shortly afterwards, writing on social media: “THEY CANCELLED ELO TONIGHT BECAUSE JEFF IS ILL????? YOU CANT MAKE THIS UP WE’RE ALL BEING BOOTED OUT.”

“Hoping people get compensated for Jeff Lynne ELO tonight,” said another. “There’s being unwell and then there’s cancelling 15 minutes due before coming on. People will have hotels booked, transport. Drinks, merchandise.”

As another wrote: “Been sat in @CoopManchester live waiting for @JeffLynnesELO. The organisers have waited until everybody sat down before they announced Jeff Lynne wouldn’t be playing. That’s after everyone spent out on parking, food and merch.”

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