Rod Stewart ‘Finds It Annoying’ That Fans Are ‘Writing Him Off’ as a Performer Amid 80th Birthday

Rod Stewart has been written off for dead a few times, but a source exclusively tells Closer that he has no desire to slow down despite announcing his “farewell” world tour and plans to continue living a colorful life well into his 80s and beyond.

“He’s prepping for one last final blow-out world tour, but that won’t be the end of it. He’ll still do shows in smaller, more personal venues,” the insider explains to Closer. “He just wants to devote more time to Penny. She’s deserving of that. He still has plenty of stamina to keep up with his younger wife and wants to travel the world with her on a second honeymoon, see the sights and dance in the moonlight.”

The source shares that the “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” artist “finds it annoying that people keep writing him off as near dead, but he’s going to prove that’s far from the case. It’s given him an incentive to come back stronger.”

Rod, 69, has defied all odds and has continued to perform hit songs in the later years of life. The Grammy winner opened up about his upcoming milestone birthday as he nears his 80th birthday on January 10, 2025.

“I’m aware my days are numbered but I’ve got no fear. We have all got to pass on at some point, so we are all in the same basket. I am going to be enjoying myself for these last few years as much as I can,” Rod told The Sun in July. “The older you get, the more you have to do that. Water has a hell of a lot to do with it. But no, you think I just have water on my rider? You’re talking to Rod Stewart here, mate. We go mad after every show. There are 13 of us, six women, really great musicians and I make them drink. We absolutely love it.”

The following month, Rod announced his extended residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace for encore shows set for summer 2025. Shortly after celebrating his big win, the “Sailing” musician cancelled his 200th Vegas residency show due to health complications, which was later revealed as a strain of COVID-19.

“I’m desperately sorry to miss this 200th show celebration. Most people can work with strep throat but obviously not me,” he said in a statement at the time. “I’m absolutely gutted. I’ve been looking forward to this concert for so long. My deepest regrets for any inconvenience this has caused. Thankfully we’ll now be returning in 2025 and I hope to see you all there.”

In September, a second source exclusively told Closer that Rod’s grueling performance schedule is taking a toll on his well-being.

“Rod is finding it increasingly difficult to deliver the high-energy performances his fans have come to expect,” the second insider told Closer at the time. “While his love for music is strong as ever, the years of touring are taking a visible toll. Rather than risk tarnishing his incredible legacy, it might be time for him to hang up his mic and his signature tight pants!”