American R&B star Summer Walker has finally addressed the unexpected ending of her In The City performance in Pretoria, South Africa, leaving fans both surprised and sympathetic.
The Over It hitmaker performed from October 2nd to 5th, including appearances at Rocking The Daisies, before closing the weekend with her set at SunBet Arena in Pretoria. Her highly anticipated show on October 5th, scheduled between 16:00 and 22:00, was abruptly cut short, sparking confusion among fans.
Taking to TikTok, Summer shared her side of the story, revealing that the decision was entirely out of her control.
“South Africa, I am so so sorry. I literally got kicked off the stage. This whole thing was really unprofessional. They changed my time three times, and when I got on stage, I’m thinking I’m about to do my full set. They’re yelling in my ear to cut my entire set halfway,” she explained.
She added that she didn’t get the chance to connect with the crowd as she normally would:
“I didn’t even get to go down and get out in the crowd like I usually do because they’re telling me to hurry up. I was prepared to do my full hour.”
According to Summer, the issue arose from restrictions imposed by police, the fire marshal, and event promoters, who warned that the venue could face fines if she didn’t end her performance early.
“They could have just paid the fine. They know that you guys spent your hard-earned money, your time, you drove far. I was on time, I was dressed, I was ready, they kicked your girl off,” she said.
Despite the disruption, Summer reassured fans that she loves performing in South Africa and hopes to make it up to them soon.
“This is my favourite place in the world. I really like y’all. Don’t do me like that. When I come back, hopefully next time they let me do my whole show,” she said.
She also addressed the issue on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that the shortened show was not her fault:
“South Africa, I love you guys so much. You were the best show. I wanted to do the full hour, but the venue and SA police didn’t allow me; it was not my fault. I love you guys, I’ll be back soon 🤍.”
The incident has sparked a conversation about event management and the challenges artists face when performing internationally. Fans have expressed understanding and excitement to welcome her back for a full performance in the future.
