Country star Raul Malo says cancer has taken a turn due to rare complication, cancels 2025 shows

Raul Malo, the 60-year-old frontman of The Mavericks, says his battle with stage IV colon cancer has taken a turn after he was diagnosed with a rare complication. In a Wednesday post on social media, Malo announced he has developed leptomeningeal disease, or LMD, a condition in which cancer cells spread from an advanced cancer to the cerebrospinal fluid and the membranes around the brain and spinal cord.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, LMD is an incurable condition in which cancer cells spread from an advanced cancer to the cerebrospinal fluid and the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. Malo said radiation therapy would begin the following day, and that chemotherapy and other therapies are being considered, though he emphasized resting and recovering.

The Mavericks have canceled the remainder of their 2025 tour dates, with two December shows at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium on Dec. 5 and 6, to allow Malo to focus on his health. Malo wrote that the band will continue to pursue new projects, including live recordings and other releases, while he concentrates on treatment.

The group had been touring with Dwight Yoakam on the Cosmic Roundup & Rodeo Tour but had canceled or postponed several dates due to Malo's health. In his post, Malo said he is grateful for the kindness and understanding shown by Yoakam, his band, and their crews.

"I am not alone, or scared," Malo wrote, thanking his wife, family, team, road crew, friends, and fans for their support. He added that the plan is to move forward with "full steam ahead" and to fight, recover, rest, and repeat, as doctors guide his care.

Fans were encouraged to hold onto their tickets and await further details about the two December shows, for which the band is "planning something special." Malo first disclosed his cancer diagnosis in June 2024, and he has continued to share updates as his health evolves.