After a four-year stage absence, Phil Collins was finally set for a comeback concert.
During Art Basel Miami Beach week, he would perform "three or four songs" as part of a gala to benefit the Little Dreams Foundation, a youth scholarship and mentoring program that he founded with ex-wife Orianne Collins-Mejjati.
But then, on the night of the show, Collins canceled, after keeping attendees waiting for hours. He apologized and provided a vague illness-related explanation. But many who'd paid $103.50 to $353.50 felt cheated, especially since Little Dreams and the singer seemed to wait till auctions had ended to break the bad news.
Just now, Collins-Mejjati has issued a response regarding her ex-husband's health, the Little Dreams gala, and the backlash.
See also: Phil Collins Cancels Comeback Concert at Little Dreams Gala During Art Basel Miami Beach
Statement from Phil Collins' Foundation Regarding December 6 Gala Event
"Thank you very much for the incredible, heartfelt support that was in full effect at the 2014 Little Dreams Foundation concert on December 6. We worked hard to bring you artists from all over the world, along with tomorrow's young stars, who performed their hearts out on stage.
"As you know, Phil Collins was scheduled to perform a few songs at the end of the night; however, he suffered an illness during sound check and doctor's were brought in to see him. Phil wanted to perform and be there for his fans, the children and the Foundation. His health was monitored right up until the time when he would take the stage. The doctor's insisted that he could not do it. He addressed the audience and, with great sadness, told them what happened.
"Everyone is concerned for Phil's health, and rightfully so. We hope that you'll understand that this situation was completely out of his control, and he's sorry to have disappointed his fans. Because this is Phil's charity and only operates on the highest level of integrity, the Little Dreams Foundation is offering a voucher for the full, face value of the ticket amount towards the December 5, 2015 concert in lieu of refunds. This will affect the funds we had hoped to raise for the children for 2015, so to alleviate that, Phil Collins has personally made a donation of $100,000 to the Little Dreams Foundation.
"We appreciate the support and understanding that we have received. The vast majority of attendees have told us that they had one of the most touching and best experiences ever. For that, we're eternally grateful. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your understanding and hope that you will continue to support Phil Collins and Orianne Collins-Mejjati in their efforts to make dreams come true for children. "
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