Illness forces Elton John to cancel weekend shows

Elton John was hospitalized for a respiratory infection, canceling his Caesars Palace concerts that were scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.

The 65-year-old singer developed the infection last week while performing at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace and was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles at 6 a.m. Wednesday, according to a statement released by John's publicist and Caesars Palace.

The pop and rock legend was told not to perform for seven days while undergoing antibiotic treatment.

"It feels strange not to be able to perform these 'Million Dollar Piano' concerts at the Colosseum," John says in the statement. "I love performing this show and I will be thrilled when we return to the Colosseum in October to complete the 11 concerts soon to be scheduled.

"All I can say to the fans is sorry I can't be with you. I hope to see you soon at this wonderful theater at Caesars Palace."

Tickets may be exchanged or refunded at the point of purchase.