Before winning the Country Icon Award at the People’s Choice Country Awards on September 28, the country artist offered an update on his battle with stomach cancer exclusively to E!, which he was diagnosed with in January 2021. When accepting the award from fellow Oklahoman Blake Shelton at Nashville’s famed Grand Ole Opry House, the 62-year-old reflected on his decades-long career and the impact he’s had on many generations.
What did Toby Keith say about his stomach cancer?
The musician shared an update on his stomach cancer to E! Magazine before accepting the Icon Award at the People’s Choice Country Awards. “I feel pretty good,” Toby, who had announced that his tumor had reduced itself by a third of its original size in June. “It’s a little bit of a roller coaster. You get good days and, you know, you’re up and down, up and gown. It’s always zero to 60 and 60 to zero but I feel good today.” He then went on to talk about what he’s most proud of (his songwriting) and discussed how good it feels to put songs out there.
What did Toby Keith say in his acceptance speech at the PCAs?
During his acceptance speech at the People’s Choice Country Music Awards in Nashville, esteemed country singer Toby Keith took the stage, his gratitude and appreciation palpable for just being able to stand on that stage in front of his loved ones and fans. Reflecting on his decades-long career, Keith recognized the impact he’s had on multiple generations and especially thanked God for allowing him to be in that moment. Keith also expressed immense gratitude to his family and close friends who have remained by his side, supporting him through thick and thin.
“I bet you never thought y’all’d see me in skinny jeans,” began Toby. “I want to thank the Almighty for allowing me to be here tonight, he’s been riding shot gun with me for a little while now. I want to thank my beautiful family that’s here. A lot of people go in and make a career like this of 30 years. Most of all,” he concluded, “I want to thank the fans for still allowing us to do what we do. Have a wonderful evening, thank you!” Toby walked onto the stage after his acceptance speech and offered a passionate performance of Don’t Let the Old Man In. Tricia Lucus, the superstar’s wife, was seen wiping tears off her cheeks during the performance and she wasn’t the only one.