Ryan Adams' Turbulent Australia and New Zealand Tour Ends in Controversy
American singer-songwriter Ryan Adams' recent tour of Australia and New Zealand, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his debut solo album Heartbreaker, has concluded amidst significant controversy and public outcry.
Melbourne Performance Incident
The tour's troubles became evident during Adams' performance at Melbourne's Hamer Hall on October 12, 2025. Attendees reported that Adams abruptly left the stage mid-performance, citing issues with camera flashes triggering his Meniere's disease—a disorder affecting the inner ear that can cause vertigo and balance problems. Fans described the show as a "trainwreck," with Adams starting and stopping songs erratically and engaging in incoherent rants. In response to the backlash, Adams issued an apology, expressing his embarrassment and explaining the health challenges posed by the flashing lights. (themusic.com.au)
New Zealand Shows and Social Media Rants
The situation did not improve during his New Zealand performances. Concert-goers in Auckland noted similar erratic behavior, including Adams' abrupt song interruptions and disjointed monologues. Following these performances, Adams took to social media to express his frustration, stating, "Thanks AUS. See you never," and hinting at ceasing international tours altogether. He also alluded to health issues affecting his performances, mentioning difficulties with his vision due to the camera flashes. (au.rollingstone.com)
Public and Media Reaction
The media and public have been vocal in their criticism. Reports highlighted Adams' on-stage meltdowns, including rants about past relationships and confrontations with audience members. His social media posts further fueled the controversy, with Adams lashing out at critics and declaring his intention to avoid future performances in Australia. (pajiba.com)
Background and Previous Allegations
This tour marked Adams' return to Australia after a hiatus following serious allegations in 2019. Multiple women, including ex-wife Mandy Moore and musician Phoebe Bridgers, accused Adams of emotional abuse and manipulative behavior. These allegations led to the cancellation of his UK and Ireland tour at the time. (pitchfork.com)
Conclusion
Ryan Adams' recent tour has been marred by health issues, erratic performances, and contentious interactions with fans and the media. His public statements suggest a reluctance to return to international touring, leaving his future engagements uncertain. Fans and industry observers are left questioning the viability of his career on the global stage.
Note: This article is based on reports from various news outlets and social media posts as of October 20, 2025.