Maxwell Scraps South Africa Concerts, Eyes Return in 2027

By Zee Dladla | 04.08.2026 | Celebrities Last Updated On 04.08.2026

Maxwell Scraps South Africa Concerts, Eyes Return in 2027

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Maxwell’s anticipated return to South Africa has been called off, leaving fans waiting longer to see the R&B singer live in the country.

Quick facts

  • The Pretoria concert was planned for SunBet Arena on August 8.
  • The Cape Town date was scheduled for Grand Arena, GrandWest, on August 11.
  • Both performances have been cancelled because of circumstances outside Maxwell’s control.
  • Ticket buyers will receive full refunds through Webtickets.
  • Maxwell’s team hopes to arrange new South African dates in 2027.

Organisers said Maxwell’s representatives notified them that the singer could not travel to South Africa because of unexpected circumstances he was unable to control.

Several alternatives were considered, including shifting the concerts to different dates, but no practical arrangement could be reached.

The Grammy winner had been booked to play SunBet Arena in Pretoria on August 8, followed by a performance at Grand Arena, GrandWest, in Cape Town on August 11. The cancellation of both shows was confirmed on Monday.

Maxwell told disappointed fans that he was sorry he would no longer be making the journey.

He explained that circumstances beyond his control had made the South African performances impossible, adding that the choice had not been made casually. The singer apologised to those who had been anticipating the concerts, thanked them for their patience and ongoing support, and said he hoped to return soon.

The organisers also clarified that neither side had violated its agreement. They said the cancellation resulted from factors outside the control of both parties.

Planning for the concerts was already complete, with the venues locked in and production and logistical arrangements prepared for the two-night run.

Maxwell and his team remain committed to bringing him back to South Africa. New performances will be pursued for 2027, as he cannot appear in the country at any stage of 2026.

Anyone who bought a ticket will be entitled to a full refund. Webtickets will contact ticket holders directly with instructions on how the money will be returned.

Written by Staff Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa's leading independent entertainment news sites.

Following ZAlebs' transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC's Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.

Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

Published on 04.08.2026
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