Sylvia and Ronnie McDowell | Source: Getty Images
Ronnie McDowell Rushed to Hospital Mid‑Concert After Slurring Words
Country singer Ronnie McDowell had to stop his concert and rush to the hospital after suffering a mini-stroke on stage during a live performance over the weekend.
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Ronnie McDowell, 75, was performing at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Oley, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, when audience members noticed he began slurring his words.
Ronnie McDowell performs at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge 50th Anniversary Celebration at Ryman Auditorium on November 7, 2010 in Nashville, Tennessee | Source: Getty Images
According to his tour manager, McDowell became incoherent after just a few songs, prompting immediate concern. Noticing his condition, they decided to stop the show and rush him to the hospital.
"He is doing much better today. We did find out that he had a mini stroke," McDowell's representative confirmed Monday. "They are going to run some more tests today before he heads back to Nashville."
Sylvia and Ronnie McDowell attend the 2nd Annual Legendary Lunch presented by Webster Public Relations and CMA at The Palm Restaurant on February 8, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee | Source: Getty Images
After noticing something was wrong, his manager pulled him offstage and asked if he was feeling okay. McDowell responded, "No," and expressed concern that he might be experiencing a stroke. He was quickly taken for medical evaluation.
The "Older Women" singer was soon surrounded by his children, who are actively supporting his recovery. He is said to be in stable condition and will undergo additional testing before heading back home to Tennessee.
McDowell's children are grateful for the outpouring support of their father's fans, but have asked them to respect their privacy as they try to navigate this situation. They've made it clear that their number one priority is McDowell's recovery.
Jan Howard and Ronnie McDowell attend the 2nd Annual Legendary Lunch presented by Webster Public Relations and CMA at The Palm Restaurant on February 8, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee | Source: Getty Images
The singer's website has not announced cancellations for any of his upcoming shows, with his tour set to continue on until December 2025.
