Country Icon, 75, Breaks Silence After Suffering On-Stage Stroke
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On the mend. Country singer Ronnie McDowell shared a positive message with fans after suffering an on-stage stroke last month.
"Hi, folks. Yes, I had a stroke. I gotta get all this plaque cleared out here on my jugular. But you know what? I'm walking,” McDowell shared in a video via Facebook.
“Yup, I'm doing my two-mile walk and I'm in Dry Ridge, Kentucky, Saturday night,” the “Older Women” artist added, referring to his show this Saturday, July 5. “It's sold out, but we will be back at the VIP for the fan appreciation. So, come and see us. Love y'all.”
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The uplifting posts garnered tons of love from fans, with several sharing their well wishes. “You’ve got this, Ronnie!” one user commented. “So happy you’re doing well! Take it easy,” added another. “Be sure to take things slow, buddy,” a third user wrote, while a fourth echoed, “Your fans will be here when you’re ready.”
On June 21, McDowell was rushed to the hospital in Reading, Pennsylvania, after being escorted off the stage at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Oley, Pennsylvania.
The singer was three or four songs into his set when he began to slur his speech, and his words started "not making sense," according to his tour manager.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«Rqekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R1aekkr8lb2m7nfddbH1» iframeMcDowell’s son, Tyler, graciously provided his dad’s fans with updates throughout the scary ordeal. "Just wanted to let everyone know—I made it to Pennsylvania. Ronnie Dean & I are in the room with Dad. He’s talking to us, and we’re waiting to do the MRI. As soon as I know more, so will y’all,” he wrote in his first Facebook post.
Tyler followed up, "Brought Dad some Popcorners and a Kombucha (snacks he likes). Ronnie Dean brought his comfy shoes, favorite brush, and Vietnam hat. Dad was very excited about all this—like a kid in a candy store."
Country Icon, 75, Breaks Silence After Suffering On-Stage Stroke first appeared on Parade on Jul 1, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
