NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (June 25, 2025) — Country superstar Luke Bryan has canceled his headlining performance at NEBRASKAland Days’ Viaero Wireless Summer Jam this Friday night due to illness, event organizers announced at noon today.
In a surprise twist, fellow country hitmaker Eric Church — joined by longtime collaborator Joanna Cotten — will step in to headline the June 27 show at the Wild West Arena in North Platte.
Bryan shared the news directly with fans via social media, saying, “I’m really sorry to say I won’t be able to play this weekend’s shows due to continued illness. I’ve been hoping to rally, but my voice is not there. Huge thanks to my buddy Eric for stepping in last minute — and of course, putting on a kick-ass show like he always does. Sitting still is not what I do best, so I can’t wait to be back soon. Love y’all.”
Church responded in kind: “Festivals are part of the fabric of what made us who we are. Happy to fill in for Luke while he’s on the mend. Not a lot of time to plan or get the whole crew together, so I’m bringing Joe and we’re going to do something unique and spontaneous.”
NEBRASKAland Days Executive Director Bob Lantis said organizers were grateful for Church’s quick response. “We know fans were excited to see Luke Bryan and we join them in wishing him a speedy recovery,” Lantis said. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a performer of Eric Church’s caliber ready to take the stage. He’s one of country music’s most dynamic entertainers and we’re confident he’ll deliver an unforgettable show.”
All tickets purchased for Bryan’s performance will be honored for Church’s appearance. No exchanges are necessary. Refund requests will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. CT on Wednesday, June 25.
Church joins a packed Summer Jam lineup that includes special guests Ashley Cooke and Baker Blankenship. Friday night’s concert is expected to draw thousands of fans to North Platte for one of the state’s biggest annual celebrations of country music.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.