Paul Rodgers has announced he will not attend this weekend’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony due to health concerns, ending any hopes of a reunion at the event.
Bad Company is being honored as part of the 2025 Hall of Fame class, marking their first nomination. Other inductees include Seattle’s Soundgarden, the White Stripes, and renowned session musician Carol Kaye. Oasis, nominated in the past two years, will have to wait for induction.
“My hope was to be at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and to perform for the fans, but at this time, I have to prioritize my health,” Rodgers shared on Instagram. “I have no problem singing; it's the stress of everything else.”
Rodgers, who formed Bad Company after Free disbanded, has faced multiple strokes in recent years. These health struggles led to the band's retirement in 2023, with their final performance occurring in 2019 opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd in Las Vegas.
There was anticipation that surviving band members, including vocalist Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke, would perform to honor late members guitarist Mick Ralphs and bassist Boz Burrell. However, Rodgers' absence prevents this reunion. Since 2008, former Heart guitarist Howard Leese has filled the lead guitarist role.
Paul Rodgers prioritizes his health over performing at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, affecting Bad Company’s planned reunion despite the band’s historic honor.