The Pussycat Dolls’ big North American reunion just hit a very public wall.
The group has canceled nearly all of its North American dates after what it called “an honest look” at the run. The official statement did not directly blame weak ticket sales, but the wording did not leave much mystery either.
The European shows are still moving forward. The one North American date still on the books is the group’s June 6 appearance at Outloud during WeHo Pride in the Los Angeles area.
Pussycat Dolls Cancel Most North American Shows
The group announced the decision on social media, telling fans the cancellation was “difficult and heartbreaking.”
“When we announced the PCD Forever Tour, we hoped to bring the show to fans across the world,” the message began. “After taking an honest look at the North American run, we’ve made the difficult and heartbreaking decision to cancel all but one of the North America dates.”
That one remaining date carries a specific meaning for the group.
“We could not think of a more meaningful place to celebrate with our fans,” the statement continued, referring to the WeHo Pride show. “The LGBTQ+ community has shown us so much love and support throughout our career, and we’re honored to be part of a weekend rooted in joy, pride, music, and chosen family.”
Tickets bought through Ticketmaster will be automatically refunded. The Nashville show, which used AXS, will also receive automatic refunds. Fans who bought resale tickets will need to seek refunds through the third-party vendor.
Fans Point To Ticket Sales And Missing Members
The cancellation comes after concert industry watchers had already been eyeing the tour’s soft sales.
Some fans praised the group for not hiding behind vague excuses. Others argued that the Dolls may have had better luck in theaters instead of larger venues. Ticket prices were also criticized.
Another issue was the lineup. Nicole Scherzinger is returning after her Tony-winning Broadway run as Norma Desmond in ‘Sunset Blvd.’ She is joined by Kimberly Wyatt and Ashley Roberts. That means the reunion includes only three of the group’s six best-known members.
A live ‘Today’ interview also went viral after Scherzinger appeared caught off guard when asked about absent former members. In March, former member Jessica Sutta claimed her MAGA political ties were one reason she was not invited back.
Tour Trouble Is Hitting Several Major Artists
The Pussycat Dolls are not the only act facing a difficult touring market.
Meghan Trainor and Zayn recently canceled their U.S. arena tours. Post Malone and Jelly Roll also canceled the first part of their stadium tour. In those cases, artists gave different explanations, including family, health concerns and album timing.
Dolly Parton also canceled her Las Vegas residency on Monday, though her shows were reportedly sold out, making her health explanation a very different case from the weak-sales speculation around other tours.
For the Pussycat Dolls, the international leg is still alive. The U.K. and European dates begin Sept. 9 in Copenhagen and continue through Oct. 13 at London’s O2. Lil Kim is set to open those shows.
“Our U.K. and European dates are still moving forward as planned, and the response has been incredible, with several shows already sold out,” the group said.
Still, the North American cancellation is a rough look for a reunion built on nostalgia, big pop hooks, and the return of Scherzinger to the stage. The Dolls may still have fans. The problem is that not enough of them appeared ready to fill the rooms.
