Country Icon Mark Chesnutt Addresses ‘Extreme Health Issues,’ Announces Temporary Break from Touring

Mark Chesnutt shared a health update after being hospitalized earlier this month for an undisclosed reason. In his latest post, he thanked his family, friends, and the country music community for their support during this difficult time. 

The 60-year-old singer did not disclose the reason for his hospitalization, however, he referred to experiencing “some extreme health issues.” 

What Happened To Mark Chesnutt?

“To my family, friends, fans and the country music community,” the “Brother Jukebox” singer began in his message to fans. “Many of you who know me well, know that I have been struggling with a battle that I’ve fought to overcome for many years on my own. Now after some extreme health issues I’ve recently experienced the time has come. The fight is over.” 

He did not elaborate on the specific “battle” he has been struggling with.

“I’ve made the decision, to take the time to get healthy,” Chesnutt continued. “I’ll be coming off the road for the next couple of months to concentrate on getting well…..to take care of me, my family and so that I can get back out on the road, to give back to ALL of you who have shown me unconditional support, care and love throughout my entire career.”

The Honky Tonk legend promised to return to the road in February of 2024.

“I truly appreciate your heartfelt understanding in my commitment, and your sensitivity to my decision, and the privacy to allow me this time,” he wrote. “Be good to one another. Stay well. God Bless.” 

Chesnutt was admitted to the hospital on November 1, 2023 and was reportedly being treated in a critical care unit. His team later confirmed his hospitalization and thanked fans for the “outpouring of love, prayers, and support.”

Due to his medical issues, Chesnutt was forced to postpone a handful of concerts, including a show in Henderson, Tenn., and a concert in Cedar Park, Texas. The rescheduled dates have yet to be announced.

In 2021, Chesnutt underwent back surgery and was sidelined from the road for several weeks. He later updated fans with the news that the surgery was a success and that he planned to return to touring at the end of September of 2021. Since then, he has been performing shows across the country and in his home state of Texas.   

How Many No.1 Hits Does Mark Chesnutt Have?

According to his official website, Mark Chesnutt has 14 No.1 singles and 23 Top 10 hits. Throughout his lauded career, he has earned four platinum albums and five gold records. He first arrived at country radio in 1990 with “Too Cold At Home.” He became a radio staple in the 1990s and went on to release songs like “Blake It On Texas,” “Bubba Shot the Jukebox, and “Goin’ Through the Big D.”  In 1998, he released a cover of Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want To Miss a Thing.” The song became a four-week chart-topper for Chesnutt and was the title track of his 1999 album.    

He is a road warrior at heart and continues to tour to this day. “I just make records because want people to come see my show,” he once shared. “Recording music for folks to just listen to music is great, but I’ve got to be out there on stage making it.”

He remains married to Tracie, his wife since 1992. They have three boys: Waylon, Casey, and Cameron. Fans can keep an eye on his official social media accounts for further updates about his condition.