John Stamos has revealed that The Beach Boys’ Mike Love is “facing serious health challenges”.
Prior to taking the stage for a concert at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee on Sunday night, the Full House actor – who sometimes performs drums and other instruments for the iconic group – posted a candid letter to Instagram.
“My beloved friend, father figure, musical hero and mentor, Mike Love, is facing serious health challenges. We hope he’ll be doing what he loves for years to come, but we don’t know what the future holds. We have tonight,” he began. “Mike is a fighter. Despite doctors, family and friends urging him to focus on his health, he insists on being on stage. He says he needs his band, the audience, his friends and drummer surrounding him to lift him up.”
John went on to note that he has played with Mike for over 41 years and was struggling to see his mentor grapple with “something so human and fragile”.
He also warned fans that the 85-year-old Good Vibrations hitmaker may not appear as dynamic as he once was.
“The Mike Love we see tonight may not be exactly the Mike we’ve always known. But he’s still every bit the Mike we love,” the 63-year-old continued. “His lyrics, optimism, unforgettable hooks and more than 7,000 concerts have brought joy to generations. What he’s given me personally is immeasurable.”
And to conclude the message, John shared that he feels “entrusted with being a steward” of The Beach Boys’ legacy.
“Tonight, I won’t forget. I want to cherish every second without feeling those seconds slipping away. That’s what I’m giving him. We don’t know what tomorrow brings. But we have tonight,” he added.
Representatives for Mike have not yet commented on his health issues.
Earlier this month, a spokesperson for The Beach Boys cancelled a show set to take place in Bloomington, Illinois on 9 October as Mike had been taking time to “recharge”.
Al Jardine, the only other living member of the original line-up, continues to tour with veteran members of the late Brian Wilson’s backing group.
