NEED TO KNOW
- Ronnie McDowell has been hospitalized following a medical incident over the weekend
- The country musician began slurring his words during a performance at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Pennsylvania
- Ronnie’s son, Tyler Dean, has been updating fans via Facebook on his father’s condition
Ronnie McDowell has been hospitalized following a medical incident over the weekend.
During his performance on Saturday, June 21, at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Oley, Penn., the country star began slurring his words during the first few songs of his set.
Nashville-based news outlet WKRN reported that Ronnie’s tour manager said he was “not making sense” during his set. The tour manager stopped the show three or four songs in to take Ronnie, 75, to the side to check in with how he was feeling.
Per WKRN, Ronnie responded “no” and said that he thought he might have suffered a stroke.
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Ronnie’s son, Tyler Dean McDowell, posted on Facebook late Saturday evening that he is focused on his father’s health amid the medical incident. “I know you’re all concerned. I promise—no one is more worried than I am,” he began.
“Please understand, this is an incredibly stressful time, and right now, my focus is on my Dad. If there’s anything that needs to be shared, I promise — we will.” He also asked fans to pray for his family.
Tyler shared more updates the following day. “Just wanted to let everyone know—I made it to Pennsylvania. Ronnie Dean & I are in the room with Dad. He’s talking to us, and we’re waiting to do the MRI,” he wrote, adding that he will keep fans posted.
Hours later, Tyler let fans know that Ronnie was “very excited” when he brought his dad a few things for his hospital stay. “2nd update: Brought Dad some Popcorners and a Kombucha (snacks he likes). Ronnie Dean brought his comfy shoes, favorite brush, and Vietnam hat,” he said.
“Dad was very excited about all this—like a kid in a candy store. Figured y’all could use a lil’ levity.”
On Sunday, Ronnie’s official Facebook page noted that the family would be “updating on their personal platforms.”
The country musician rose to prominence during the late 1970s for his song “The King is Gone,” which paid tribute to Elvis Presley.
Ronnie is known for country hits “Older Women,” “You’re Gonna Ruin My Bad Reputation” and “All Tied Up.” Most recently, he was featured on Dolly Parton’s 2023 song “I Dreamed About Elvis” from her album Rockstar.
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