Justin Bieber cancels Toronto shows, citing illness

Justin Bieber says he's postponing two Toronto concert dates this week as he deals with a persistent illness.

The Stratford, Ont.-raised pop star was set to play Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday and Wednesday as part of his Justice world tour. He will also postpone a date in Washington, D.C., on Friday.

In a post on his Instagram stories, Bieber expressed regret over the decision:

"Can't believe I'm saying this. I've done everything to get better but my sickness is getting worse," he wrote.

"My heart breaks that I will have to postpone these next few shows (doctor's orders). To all my people love you so much and I'm gonna rest and get better!"

He did not provide any further details about the illness.

The announcement came hours before Bieber was set to take the stage at the first Toronto show.

"Due to non-COVID related illness, the Justice Tour has postponed this week's Toronto and D.C. shows," according to a statement from Scotiabank Arena operator Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment on Tuesday.

"Hold onto your tickets as they will be honoured when the rescheduled dates are announced shortly."

It's the latest setback for Bieber's Toronto dates, which were already delayed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originally he was scheduled to play the city in 2020 as part of the Changes Tour, which revolved around an album he released that year.

Then those dates were pushed into 2021 before they were bumped a second time into 2022. He played one of three Toronto shows in March with plans to return on June 7 and 8.