Celebrities who took a temporary hiatus due to health issues

In the demanding world of entertainment, the pressures of maintaining public visibility and delivering high-quality performances often exert a significant toll on artists' health. Recent years have seen prominent figures in music and acting openly addressing their struggles with physical and mental wellbeing, leading some to temporarily step back from their careers to recuperate.

One notable example is Sophia Laforteza, leader of the girl group KATSEYE, who announced in August 2026 that she would be withdrawing from upcoming promotional events. At 23, Laforteza's decision underscores the increasing recognition within the industry of prioritizing mental health. Her record label, HYBE in collaboration with Geffen Records, emphasized the necessity of this break to safeguard her wellness, especially in light of the departure of her bandmate Manon earlier that year.

Similarly, Ariana Grande, a global pop icon, revealed plans to retreat from public engagements following the conclusion of her Eternal Sunshine Tour in August 2026. At 33, Grande has faced persistent public scrutiny regarding her physical health, intensified after the release of her 'Petal' music video. Reports indicate her intent to end the tour on a positive note before taking a considerable hiatus to focus on personal wellbeing away from the relentless spotlight.

The acting realm has seen comparable instances. Tom Holland, known for his role in the Spider-Man franchise, took a year-long break after the psychologically taxing production of the series "The Crowded Room" in 2023. The intense nature of the project, which delves into true crime themes, visibly impacted his mental health, prompting a pause to recover. Despite this, Holland made a robust return in 2026 with two major film releases, demonstrating the restorative effect of his hiatus.

Mental health considerations also influenced Shawn Mendes's career trajectory. In July 2022, Mendes cancelled the remainder of his 'Wonder: The World Tour' after initially planning a short break. The decision followed consultations with medical professionals and reflected his need to address mental health challenges. Mendes’s return was marked by the release of his fifth studio album in late 2024, signaling a successful comeback after a prolonged absence from touring.

Health complications have similarly affected Justin Bieber, who faced a diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome resulting in facial paralysis. The physical strain experienced during his Justice World Tour in 2022 compelled him to prioritize recovery over performance commitments. Bieber's hiatus was succeeded by the release of two albums, 'SWAG' and 'SWAG II,' in 2025, and a highly anticipated performance at Coachella, indicating a strong resurgence in his career.

These instances collectively highlight a growing trend where artists acknowledge the toll that high-intensity work and public scrutiny can exact on their health. The music and film industries, traditionally characterized by relentless schedules and demanding promotional activities, are increasingly witnessing stars advocating for necessary breaks to maintain long-term wellbeing.

The openness of artists like Laforteza, Grande, Holland, Mendes, and Bieber serves to destigmatize mental and physical health issues within the entertainment sector. Their decisions to pause and subsequently return to their craft reinforce the importance of health-conscious career management, paving the way for future conversations around sustainable artistry.

While the specific health details and recovery processes remain largely private, the public announcements and career pauses signify a shift towards prioritizing personal wellness alongside professional obligations. As fans and industry observers, acknowledging these pauses as acts of self-care is essential in fostering a more supportive environment for artists navigating the challenges of fame and demanding careers.