Naomi McPherson Stepping Away From MUNA Tour Opening To Care For Terminally Ill Mother

Indie pop powerhouse MUNA has announced that band member Naomi McPherson will be absent from the initial dates of the group's upcoming North American headlining run. The trio shared the solemn news directly with fans across social media, explaining that McPherson is stepping away from the stage to be by their mother’s side as she battles terminal cancer. The band revealed that McPherson’s mother, Harriet, has been suffering from an extremely aggressive form of the disease for some time. Her condition escalated rapidly over the last several weeks, making it clear to the group and family that her final days would tragically align with the launch of their scheduled concert dates. ## Why is Naomi McPherson taking time off from MUNA? McPherson plays a pivotal role in MUNA as a multi-instrumentalist, handling guitar, synthesizers, and backing vocals alongside bandmates Katie Gavin and Josette Maskin. In an emotional message addressed to their fanbase, the group explained that family priorities take absolute precedent during such a devastating moment. They noted that writing the update came with heavy hearts, but being transparent with their audience was essential as they navigate these sudden structural changes to the upcoming "Gets So Hot" tour. The band emphasized that McPherson needs to remain home to provide care and support for Harriet during her end-of-life care. ## What cities are on the MUNA North American tour? The North American tour is scheduled to launch with an opening show in Phoenix before rolling into a dense schedule of major cities. Planned stops along the trek include Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta, Boston, and Santa Barbara, among several other stops. Despite the heavy emotional toll and McPherson's absence, MUNA confirmed that the tour will proceed. The band expressed deep love and solidarity for McPherson while preparing to take the stage for the opening stretch. Supporters from across the music community quickly flooded the group's online channels with messages of comfort and strength for McPherson and their family during this difficult time. No official timeline has been set for McPherson's return, as the group remains entirely focused on supporting their bandmate through this painful period.