Peter Kay’s best friend Steve Pemberton speaks out following controversy over cancelled tour

Last week funny man Peter Kay was forced to axe over 100 dates on his £85 million tour, issuing a statement on Wednesday to explain why.

The hotly-anticipated string of UK and Ireland dates stretching across 2018 and 2019 had been due to kick off in Birmingham in April.

Peter’s announcement read: “Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work. This includes my stand-up tour.

“My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I’m sure you’ll understand my family must always come first. I’m very sorry.”

Fans shared warm wishes for the comedian after he cancelled his first live tour in eight years.

One commented: “Omg wishing you and your family well. It’s quite right to put your family first xx.”

Another added sympathetically: “Peter, people will understand don’t worry! Family life is more important than anything…

“Hope the reason for the cancelation gets better… big HUGS coming to your family!!!”

One person responded: “Gutting news for anyone who bought Peter Kay tickets. More importantly it sounds like something serious has occurred though. Hope him and his family are all okay. Top comedian.”

While many others said they were similarly “gutted” and some aired their disappointment over Twitter, one person commented: “So sad that Peter Kay has had to cancel his tour. Family always comes first and people need to realise that.”

Another said: “No need to be sorry. Family always comes first!”

Peter’s statement promised refunds for all arena tour and Dance For Life tickets and advised customers to contact their point of purchase with queries.

There has been some consternation among fans over this as, the Metro reports, they may not be able to claim back for money spent on the phone.

The paper states that some gig goers were worried they’d be left out of pocket if they decided to call the premium rate hotlines given on the box office websites of some venues.

Both hotlines for these two venues charge called 7p per minute and reportedly up to 55p per minute when calling from a mobile depending on the user’s network – meaning someone on hold for 10 minutes could be charged upwards of £6.20.

(Costs are outlined in terms and conditions when booking.)

Now Peter’s pal, Benidorm actor Steve Pemberton, has explained that the adored comedian would “never have wanted to cancel”.

Read more: Peter Kay’s Christmas telly still due to go ahead

Steve, who appeared with Peter in The League Of Gentleman’s Apocalypse, said: “It’s a big thing to cancel, he wouldn’t have wanted to do that at all. We’ve been sending him our love.”

Exactly what is happening in Peter’s personal life is unknown.

Read more: Tragic end to Peter Kay’s charity funding

We wish him and his family well – and hope his fans continue to extend the same support.