Status Quo’s Rick Parfitt May Never Perform Again

Heartbreaking news for fans of denim-clad rockers Status Quo.

Guitarist Rick Parfitt has been forced to pull out of their upcoming tour following his massive heart attack back in June – and he may never be able to perform with the band again.

Rick was taken ill after a show in Turkey on June 14 and had already been ordered to take the rest of the year off.

But the full extent of Rick’s huge cardiac arrest is only just coming to light, with the band’s manager Simon Porter explaining that the 67-year-old rocker actually “died for several minutes” during the episode and has been left with “mild cognitive impairments”.

In a statement, he said: “Although Rick is recovering well and is now able to lead a relatively normal day to day life, he is far from being fit enough to undertake the rigours of Quo’s touring schedule.

“Perhaps now is the time to reveal that Rick actually ‘died’ for several minutes directly following his heart attack which resulted in mild cognitive impairments for which he continues to receive neuropsychological support.

“His medical team continue to be confident of a full recovery, but Rick’s absolute priorities for the foreseeable future are for his health and well-being and to be able to see his eight-year-old twin children Tommy and Lily grow up.

“To this end, Rick may well have performed his last show with Quo, but no final decision will be made until next year.

“Regardless, it is his wish that the band continue to tour as planned and he will always be a part of Quo’s numerous other off stage activities.”

The three chord wonders will go ahead with their European tour as planned, roping in Irish guitarist Richie Malone to fill Rick’s trademark white pumps.

Here’s wishing Rick a full and speedy recovery.