Kelly Clarkson Can’t ‘Risk Damaging’ Vocal Cords Amid Canceled Shows as She Fights ‘Hidden Battles’

Less than two hours before she was set to hit the stage on July 4, Kelly Clarkson canceled the opening night of her highly anticipated Studio Sessions residency at Caesars Palace to avoid potential injury to her voice.

“She belts out every single note,” a Las Vegas insider spilled to Page Six on the reasons behind the sudden change of plans. “She’s an incredibly powerful singer, but it takes its toll on her vocal cords and she’s come incredibly close to needing surgery before.”

“She cannot risk damaging her cords further,” explained the insider. “She’s on thin ice.”

A second source revealed that Clarkson, 43, is struggling with “serious hidden battles” that “very few people are privy to.”

“Kelly’s personal life is so insanely complicated,” the source shares. “It’s a source of emotional, and therefore, physical distress for her.”

The “Because of You” singer’s 18-show residency at the Colosseum was announced in February, causing many fans to rush to buy tickets. However, they were left disappointed when Clarkson was forced to cancel her first and second shows on such short notice – especially seeing as some fans from out of state had booked pricey travel and hotels so that they could attend.

Shortly after her decision to postpone the concert, a “devastated” Clarkson took to Instagram on July 4, to explain the upsetting situation to her followers.

“We have been working 24/7 to make Studio Sessions the most intimate and extraordinary experience with and for my incredible fans’” she said at the time. “The prep and rehearsals have taken a toll on my voice.”

“I want the shows to be perfect for y’all and I need to protect myself from doing serious damage so I am taking this weekend and next week to rest up so that we can deliver what you all deserve,” she continued. “The show is truly incredible. The musicians and singers are outstanding, and I want us all to start out strong. I can’t wait to be back next weekend and show y’all what we’ve been working on.”

While some fans in the comments section offered her words of love and support, others were left frustrated and suggested her decision was “disrespectful” to attendees.

One person wrote, “I’m literally here in a homemade Kelly Clarkson T-shirt. I spent $700 on flights and $1000 on [the] hotel. Canceling one hour before the show is INSANE.”

A second person pointed out, “The crazy part is there isn’t even an apology in this post.”

“I wish you would’ve done this sooner than 15 mins before doors opening,” a third fan chimed in, before adding, “I hope you feel better.”