Country star Cody Johnson underwent emergency surgery for a ruptured eardrum on October 7, 2025, and had to cancel the remainder of his tour. Johnson, who has appeared on the last two seasons of “American Idol,” including performing his duet with judge Carrie Underwood, announced the situation “with a very heavy heart.”
In a social media post before his surgery, Johnson wrote that the remainder of his concert dates in 2025 “will not be able to happen,” explaining, “While battling a severe upper respiratory and sinus infection, I burst my ear drum. The severity of the rupture means I must undergo immediate surgery. The healing process will take many weeks, and it is not possible for me to sing during this time.”
Johnson, who was recently nominated for his first CMA Entertainer of the Year Award, continued, “Without the surgery my downtime could be months. I pray for full healing so I can get well and return to doing what I love. Thank you COJO Nation for the love and support now, and always.”
Cody Johnson Gives Post-Surgery Update: ‘I’ve Really Felt the Love’
Later in the day on October 7, Johnson provided a video update for fans after undergoing surgery. Sitting at home with a bandage over his ear, Johnson said, “Hey y’all, just got home from my surgery in Houston. Got the nice little patch on my ear.”
“Doctor said the surgery went great,” he continued. “Should make a full recovery with the proper rehab. I’ve got a lot of followup doctors appointments to go yet.”
Johnson then said, “I just want to say thanks for all the texts, the calls, the prayer requests, all the good wishes. I’ve really felt the love. So I’m gonna do my best to recharge and I can’t wait to see you guys in 2026.”
According to Variety, Johnson had six major dates left on his tour, at festivals or in arenas. He also had to cancel his shows in Columbus, Ohio, in mid-September as he began dealing with his respiratory issues, thinking at first he just had a mild cold.
He told fans at the time on social media, “I took every precaution that I could: IVs, meds, even sweated in the sauna… unfortunately today I woke up without a singing voice: severe cough, burning chest and throat.”
Fans & Friends Rally Around Cody Johnson Amid Health Crisis
GettyJohnson has been flooded with well-wishes from fans and friends on his post-surgery update (he didn’t allow comments on his initial announcement). His update had over 30,000 likes within an hour of him posting it.
The band Midland wrote to him, “Sending you big prayers for a full recovery brother 🙏 ❤️”
Fellow country star Terri Clark commented, “Sending lots of love your way Cody❤️❤️”
Among the many fans who sent their sympathies and encouragement, one wrote, “So happy I got to see you put on an amazing show before you started battling health issues, all love and prayers for you❤️”
Another commented, “So glad to see you are doing good. Take care of you. Your fans will be here when you are ready to get back to live shows”
Cody Johnson Made a Surprise Appearance on ‘American Idol’ Finale in May
Johnson shocked “American Idol” Top 5 finalist Slater Nalley during the season 23 finale on May 28. Performing with Underwood on the hit duet she usually sings with Johnson, “I’m Gonna Love You,” Nalley was shocked and thrilled when Johnson walked onto the stage to join them.
The year before, Johnson appeared on the season 23 finale to sing his Grammy-winning song “’Til You Can’t” with Top 5 finalist Triston Harper.
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