Morrissey Cancels U.S. Concerts After Credible Death Threat

Iconic British artist Morrissey, renowned for his influential role as the lead singer of The Smiths and his enduring impact on alternative music and LGBTQ+ culture, abruptly canceled two highly anticipated U.S. concerts scheduled for September 19 and 20, 2025, after receiving what his management and authorities described as a "credible threat" on his life. The affected shows were to be held at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, and MGM Music Hall at Fenway in Boston, Massachusetts. The announcement, made just hours before showtime, sent shockwaves through his fan base, particularly among LGBTQ+ audiences who have long found resonance in Morrissey’s introspective lyrics and outsider ethos .

The cancellation was precipitated by a disturbing incident traced to Canada earlier this month. According to reports from the Ottawa Citizen and corroborated by multiple news outlets, a 26-year-old Ottawa man, Noah Castellano, posted a threatening message on the social media platform Bluesky on September 4, 2025. The post explicitly stated an intent to harm Morrissey during his scheduled performance at TD Place in Ottawa. Authorities responded swiftly, and Castellano was arrested on charges of "uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm" shortly after the incident. He was released on bail following his arrest .

Despite the threat, Morrissey went ahead with his Ottawa performance on September 12, followed by concerts in Toronto on September 13 and New York City on September 16. However, the escalating concern for safety led to the cancellation of his next two U.S. dates. In an official statement shared via Morrissey’s social media, management emphasized, "Out of an abundance of caution for the safety of both the artist and the audience, tonight’s engagement at Foxwoods has been cancelled," and extended similar reasoning for the Boston show. Ticket holders were reassured that full refunds would be issued automatically .

For many LGBTQ+ fans, Morrissey’s music has provided a safe haven and a means of self-expression, particularly for those who have felt marginalized or misunderstood. His lyrical themes of alienation, identity, and longing have been embraced by generations of queer listeners seeking authenticity and connection in popular culture. The news of the death threat and subsequent cancellations has thus resonated deeply within LGBTQ+ communities, prompting public statements of support and concern across social media platforms and fan forums .

LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations remind the public that artist safety is not just a concern for performers but also for audiences, who deserve to experience live music in environments free from fear and violence. The incident further spotlights the ongoing challenges faced by public figures who, by virtue of their visibility and outspoken views, become potential targets for harassment and threats.

In response to the cancellations, many LGBTQ+ fans and allies have expressed solidarity with Morrissey and his team. Social media has been filled with messages emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety and mental well-being over commercial considerations. Some have called for increased security measures at venues and more robust protocols for addressing online threats targeting artists, especially those whose work resonates with marginalized communities .

LGBTQ+ organizations have also highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue about the intersection of celebrity, vulnerability, and the responsibilities of venues, promoters, and law enforcement in creating safe spaces for both artists and attendees. This incident serves as a sobering reminder that threats to safety can have tangible repercussions on cultural life, disrupting opportunities for collective celebration and personal expression.

Morrissey’s next scheduled appearance is at The Met in Philadelphia on September 23, 2025. While management has not indicated further cancellations, fans and community members remain vigilant. The events of this weekend have reaffirmed the enduring significance of live music as a site of gathering and resistance for LGBTQ+ audiences, as well as the necessity of investing in protective measures that honor both artistic freedom and communal safety .

As the story continues to develop, LGBTQ+ news networks will remain attentive to further updates, amplifying the voices of fans and advocates who demand a world where art and identity can flourish without the specter of violence.