Credit: Ross Halfin

Credit: Ross HalfinCOVID-19 has officially hit Metallica‘s tour schedule.

The metal legends are postponing their upcoming South American tour dates with Greta Van Fleet — originally set for April — to December due to the pandemic. Additionally, the ‘Tallica-headlined Epicenter and Welcome to Rockville festivals have been canceled.

The 2020 Sonic Temple festival, which Metallica had also been scheduled to headline before pulling out due to James Hetfield‘s commitment to rehabilitation events, has also been scrapped. Red Hot Chili Peppers and Tool had joined the lineup in Metallica’s place.

Tickets purchased for the 2020 festivals will be honored in 2021. You can also get a full refund if you can’t attend the 2021 dates.

There is one silver lining: Metallica has returned to the Louder than Life lineup after dropping off due to Hetfield’s rehab commitments. That’s because the Kentucky festival is expanding from three to four days, and will now take place September 17-20.

“We’ll sign off for now by sending you our love during these trying times,” Metallica says. “Here’s to looking back on this period soon with renewed appreciation for all the amazing times together with our extended Metallica family around the world.”

“For now, go hang with your significant others, kids, pets, parents…whomever you have in your space,” the band continues. “Create your playlists, watch some movies, try some old-fashioned board games and most importantly, stay safe. We’ll keep in touch!”

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