Grace VanderWaal is choosing to prioritize her well-being.
The singer and former “America’s Got Talent” champion returned to social media on Monday, March 9 with an emotional message explaining why she will no longer join fellow singer Natalie Jane on her upcoming tour.
The Emotional Update
“Hi everyone, it’s been a bit,” VanderWaal wrote in a message shared on Instagram. “Im happy to be back and talk to yall. I unfortunately will not be going on the Natalie Jane tour due to mental health.”
The 22-year-old artist had originally been scheduled to perform as part of Jane’s tour across the United States and the United Kingdom, with dates planned through June.
However, VanderWaal said she has been quietly struggling and decided the healthiest choice was to step away.
“I’ve been struggling for a while and am choosing myself in this moment,” she wrote. “I love you Natalie and know you’re going to kill it, and I’m sorry to anyone who’s disappointed.”
Despite the change in plans, VanderWaal reassured fans that she still intends to return to music when she feels ready.
“I love you so much and will be singing very soon,” she added. “Thank you guys for understanding. Again so so much love. – G.”
She echoed those sentiments in the caption of her post, apologizing to fans while sending appreciation for their support.
VanderWaal Was Met With a Wave of Support
The announcement was quickly met with encouragement from fans and fellow artists alike.
Natalie Jane responded in the comments with a supportive message of her own, writing, “Health comes first always!!!”
Singer Jewel also expressed solidarity, commenting, “Here for you, sis!” Meanwhile, television host Carson Daly praised VanderWaal for her honesty about mental health.
“Mental Health is health,” Daly wrote. “Wish more young artists would be as honest w themselves as you are being. Good on you.”
VanderWaal has previously spoken openly about the pressures that came with early fame.
She rose to prominence after winning “America’s Got Talent” at just 12 years old, quickly becoming known for her distinctive voice and songwriting talent.
In October, VanderWaal’s mother, Tina VanderWaal, died following a battle with cancer — a difficult moment that the singer has been processing while continuing her career.
She shared a heartbreaking post to Instagram with a carousel of images shortly after her passing.
“Can’t yet find the words. I love you mommy. So much. I wake up and want to call you. I don’t know how to move forward without you. I love you,” she wrote.
