Metallica frontman James Hetfield has said he was taken ill on Sunday (March 8th) after eating a bad oyster.
The rock group were forced to cancel the last date on their European tour in Sweden after Hetfield was hospitalised with a stomach bug.
16,000 fans had already arrived at the Stockholm Globe Arena in preparation for the concert when drummer Lars Ulrich announced the show had been cancelled.
In a statement on Metallica's website, Hetfield said doctors had narrowed down the cause of his stomach bug to “either a 24hr virus or a bad oyster”.
“Yes, hate to admit, an oyster could have taken me down,” he said.
Hetfield was treated in hospital for dehydration but left later in the evening in order to return to the US.
“I acknowledge and apologize for any inconvenience this has caused fans who had travelled near and far for the show,” he said.
“I had done everything possible to make it, and was at the point of falling if I stood up. On a lighter note since my illness, the support band 'Swedish Oyster Cult' will be thrown off the tour. More Cowbell?...More barf bagz!!”
The show will be rescheduled for later in the spring.
Metallica live


Pete Doherty: 'I Was Conned Into Filming 24 Hour Documentary'... Next
Metallica's World Magnetic Tour Hits Florida - Photos
Shocking Gig Wounds: Photos of On-Stage Injuries
Anti-War Songs - The horrors of war and promoting peace
Metallica Rock Out At Marlay Park - Exclusive
Guitarists Pulling Sex Faces - The Phenomenon in Photos
Chapel Club, Lyrebirds and Munich Live In Brighton - Photos
Vampire Weekend Take 'Contra' To Manchester - Photos
Enter Shikari Meet & Greet Fans After Ceiling Collapses In Blackpool
Register now and have your comments approved automatically!