Continuing problems with Morrissey’s health have lead to the cancellation of the last 22 dates on his American tour, effectively ending his involvement in America, for now.

The first gig cancelled was due to be played tomorrow (Mon 18) in Kansas, with shows in Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Indianapolis, Phoenix and Denver also axed. The tour was set to culminate in San Francisco on April 30. "Despite his best efforts to try to continue touring, Morrissey has to take a hiatus and will not be able to continue on the rest of the tour," she said in a statement. "Morrissey thanks all of his fans for their well wishes and thoughts." The controversial 53-year-old has already cancelled 21 shows over the past year – primarily due to pneumonia - raising questions over his ability to continue to tour live. Fans will be able to get refunds for tickets from the place of purchase and Morrissey thanked them for their well wishes. The vegetarian star had previously made sure his March 1 concert at Staples Center in Los Angeles be held with no sales of meat at the venue's outlets, such is his dedication to the cause of vegetarianism.

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Morrissey - former front man for the alternative rock band The Smiths – has been a controversial presence ever since, and often before, he left the band that made his name. He is often accused of being racist due to the odd comments he makes, and feuds against politicians regularly. His stance on meat has also hit the headlines on numerous occasions.