With the new omicron variant of COVID-19 spreading across the country at a rapid rate, LL Cool J was forced to pull out of his performance at this year’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2022 performance after testing positive for the virus.
The rap veteran released a statement to let his fans know that he will no longer be able to perform.
“I know it’s disappointing to the millions of fans but my test came back positive for COVID, which means I’ll no longer be able to perform as scheduled at ‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,’” LL Cool J said in a statement, according to Variety. “We were ready and I was really looking forward to ringing in 2022 in my hometown in a special way, but for now I wish everyone a healthy and happy New Year. The best is yet to come!”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the New Year’s Eve celebration that will be taking place in Times Square, New York. Another performer who had to pull out of the show was Chlöe, who was set to perform her track “Have Mercy.”
Despite these cancellations, the show is still set to take place live on ABC Dec. 31, with Ryan Seacrest helming the event for the 17th time. Seacrest will also be joined by co-hosts Liza Koshy, Billy Porter, and Ciara, who will be handling the celebration from the West Coast.
Despite the current surge in cases of COVID-19, attendees will still be able to attend the New Year’s Eve event, just in lower numbers and following tighter health and safety protocols.
