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Brian May’s Wife Anita Dobson Reveals Queen’s Touring Future After Guitarist’s Stroke

Brian May’s Wife Anita Dobson Reveals Queen’s Touring Future After Guitarist’s Stroke

Valeriy Bagrintsev Valeriy Bagrintsev
6 minute read

Brian May’s Wife Anita Dobson Reveals Queen’s Touring Future After Guitarist’s Stroke

Anita Dobson shares insights into Queen’s touring plans following Brian May’s health challenges, hinting at smaller shows and innovative hologram experiences.

A Sudden Stroke and Its Impact on Queen’s Road Ahead

When news broke last September about Brian May suffering a minor stroke, it sent ripples through the fan community. The legendary Queen guitarist described it as something that “came on all of a sudden, out of the blue,” leaving him unable to control one of his arms temporarily. It was “a little scary,” as he candidly admitted, but luckily, Brian received “fantastic” medical care that set him on the path to recovery.

Brian May and Anita Dobson

Brian’s health journey isn’t new to fans who have followed his story closely. Back in 2020, he was hospitalized after a heart attack triggered by arterial disease, with doctors warning he was “very near death” due to three congested arteries. His resilience has been nothing short of inspiring.

On Alan Titchmarsh’s show Love Your Weekend, Brian opened up about his health struggles, mentioning that he’s had “a number” of conditions over the years but always managed to bounce back. “They give you a wake-up call,” he reflected—a sentiment many longtime fans can relate to, seeing how this rock icon has endured and thrived.

Anita Dobson’s Take: Queen’s Touring Will Evolve, Not End

If you were holding your breath about a full-scale Queen tour in the near future, Anita Dobson’s recent comments might both soothe and surprise you. In an interview with The Mirror, she hinted that while Queen has been busy in the studio with Adam Lambert, the band’s touring might shift gears.

“They will do little bits and bobs, but they won’t do those big tours,” Anita explained. This feels like a bittersweet but realistic update, considering Brian’s health and the band’s evolving approach to performances.

After all, Queen’s legacy isn’t just about massive stadium shows anymore—it’s about reinventing how fans experience their music.

Enter the Hologram Era: A New Frontier for Queen

Speaking of reinvention, Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor have recently toyed with the idea of an ABBA Voyage-style hologram show. For those who missed it, ABBA Voyage is a groundbreaking concert experience featuring digital avatars of the iconic Swedish pop group, blending nostalgia and cutting-edge technology.

Brian shared his excitement about “reuniting” virtually with their late bandmates—especially Freddie Mercury—explaining that while Freddie lives on through their timeless music, new technology can bring an immersive experience unlike anything before.

“Freddie is still alive through the music that we listen to all the time. In a sense, John is still with us in the same way, but now we have so many other opportunities.” — Brian May

He envisions a kind of show that’s not just old footage thrown together but a fresh creation of Queen as if the original lineup were performing today. “I’m very taken with the idea that we can be the original Queen again,” Brian enthused.

Roger Taylor weighed in with his thoughts on the current tech landscape, sharing mixed feelings about the ABBA Voyage show. While he “had a good time” and enjoyed the concert, he felt the holograms weren’t quite convincing enough yet and believes technology has already moved far beyond what was showcased.

Keeping Freddie Mercury’s Spirit Alive

Queen’s live performances in recent years have often featured tributes to Freddie, such as Brian playing “Love of My Life” while a video of Freddie appears on screen. This simple yet touching integration sets the foundation for a more advanced holographic experience.

The band’s dedication to honoring Freddie while pushing forward with modern tech feels like a beautiful bridge across time. It’s a way to offer fans a glimpse of the magic Queen created with its original lineup, without losing the spirit that made them legends.

A Legacy That Continues Strong

Even as Queen explores new ways to perform, their cultural impact remains undeniable. Last October, the band was named the UK’s most-played rock act of the 21st century—a testament to their enduring appeal across generations.

Rumors about a Queen hologram show gained traction last year when Mercury Songs Limited filed trademarks related to virtual reality and 3D experiences featuring Freddie Mercury’s name. While official details remain under wraps, fans can’t help but imagine what immersive moments lie ahead.

Brian May’s Road to Recovery and the Band’s Bright Future

Brian May’s health setbacks have certainly reshaped expectations for Queen’s future tours, but they haven’t dimmed the band’s spirit. Anita Dobson’s insights and Brian’s enthusiasm for new technology suggest that Queen’s legacy will continue to evolve in surprising and exciting ways.

Whether it’s intimate “little bits and bobs” tours or revolutionary hologram shows, Queen fans have plenty to look forward to—proving that this iconic band still knows how to rock, even decades later.

FAQ

  • What health issues has Brian May faced recently?
    Brian suffered a minor stroke in 2024 and previously had a heart attack in 2020 due to arterial disease.
  • Will Queen be touring again soon?
    According to Anita Dobson, Queen will likely perform smaller shows but are not planning large-scale tours.
  • What’s the idea behind the Queen hologram show?
    The band is exploring immersive hologram concerts allowing fans to experience Queen as if the original members were performing live.
  • Who is involved in Queen’s recent music projects?
    Queen has been working on new music with Adam Lambert, who has been their touring vocalist for years.
  • How is Freddie Mercury’s legacy being preserved in live shows?
    Holograms and video tributes during live performances help keep Freddie’s presence alive for fans worldwide.

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