Coldplay's Chris Martin contracts 'serious lung infection' and cancels shows

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin has contracted a "serious lung infection" and is unable to perform for his upcoming shows in Brazil.

In a statement that was released both in English and Portuguese, the band revealed the news to fans.

"With deep regret, we've been forced to postpone our upcoming shows in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo until early 2023," the message read.

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Martin, 45, is reportedly under "strict doctors orders" and has been asked to rest for three weeks.

The band said they are working "as fast as possible" to lock in new dates for the shows, and apologised to fans for the last-minute cancellation.

"To everyone in Brazil who was looking forward to these concerts, we're extremely sorry for any disappointment and inconvenience," they wrote.

As of now, only the Brazil shows have been postponed. The band is still expected to perform a 10-show stretch in Buenos Aires and Argentina, beginning on October 25 for their Music of Spheres tour, according to their website.

Martin is yet to issue a personal statement on his illness and so is his long-time girlfriend, 50 Shades of Grey actress Dakota Johnson.

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