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Tesfaye Reverses Weeknd Retirement Plans
10 Aug
Summary
- The Weeknd has reconsidered retiring his stage persona.
- He cited a loss of voice in 2022 as a potential retirement trigger.
- Tesfaye expresses love for performing and doesn't want to disappear.

Abel Tesfaye, the artist behind the persona The Weeknd, has reversed his previously announced intentions to retire the stage name. He had suggested in 2025 that he was considering ending the Weeknd era after completing his scheduled performances.
Tesfaye cited a desire to escape the competitive 'rat race' of accolades and success associated with the persona. He explained that the Weeknd identity felt "mastered" and no longer presented a challenge, prompting his interest in exploring new endeavors after an incident where he lost his voice during a 2022 show.
However, during the kickoff of his Stockholm shows on August 10, 2026, Tesfaye reassured his fans. He stated he loves performing "too much to ever disappear" and that he found retirement did not feel right. He vowed to remain with his audience, singing "I'll never disappear."