Justin Bieber fans that anticipated meeting their favorite performer during his "Purpose" tour will no longer have that opportunity. The 22-year-old singer has canceled all future meet-and-greets at his concerts.
Bieber made the announcement on Tuesday night in a lengthy Instagram post that explained his reasoning for the cancellation. As much as he enjoys meeting his fans, the interactions leave him "feelings mentally and emotionally exhausted to the point of depression." The "Sorry" singer realizes his admirers come to the event with such high expectations that he doesn't want to leave anyone disappointed.
"I enjoy meeting such incredible people but I end up feeling so drained and filled with so much of other people's spiritual energy that I end up so drained and unhappy," Bieber wrote. "Want to make people smile and happy but not at my expense and I always leave feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted to the point of depression. The pressure of meeting people's expectations of what I'm supposed to be is so much for me to handle and a lot on my shoulders."
He further explained that he will focus on giving fans a show and more albums "as promised." His next scheduled concert is at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 23.
"Can't tell you how sorry I am, and wish it wasn't so hard on me. And I want to stay in the healthy mindset I'm in to give you the best show you have ever seen," Bieber concluded.
The "Purpose" tour had two VIP ticket packages available for fans that wanted to meet Bieber when he visited their city. The first packaged, called "The Ultimate #Purpose Experience," cost $2000 and gave each Belieber a chance to snap a photo with the singer. The second, the "I'll Show You Experience," also included a meet-and-greet with Bieber but in a group setting.
Bieber's team has not commented on whether fans will receive any type of refund on the less than satisfactory packages, now that a major component is missing. It's also unclear if other perks of the VIP tickets are still included such as a behind-the-scenes tour backstage, specialized seating near the stage, a pre-show hospitality lounge and premium merchandise.
Bieber kicked off his 114-date tour on March 9 in Seattle. It's set to conclude on Nov. 29 in London.
