Devastated Michael Buble has pulled out of hosting at next month’s Brit Awards following his son’s cancer diagnosis, The Sun’s Bizarre column can reveal.
The pop superstar, 41, has told bosses he will miss what would have been the biggest gig of his career because he is determined to focus on saving the life of his three-year-old son Noah, who is battling liver cancer.
Brits chiefs are now discussing potential replacements ahead of the ceremony at London’s O2 Arena on February 22.
Last night a source said: “It was a difficult call but Michael has decided to pull out of hosting the Brit Awards.
“Out of respect for Michael the producers gave him as much time as he needed to make the decision, which they completely understood.”
“He would have put a unique stamp on the night so it’s a real shame, but at the moment his priority is his family.”
“They are exploring other options now about who will take his place and a number of people have thrown their hat in the ring.”
“No matter who they pick it will be an incredible night.”
In November Michael and his Argentinian wife Luisana Lopilato, 29 — who welcomed their second child Elias, one, in January last year — said they were putting their careers on hold after confirming Noah’s cancer diagnosis.
The Canadian singer immediately canceled all of his upcoming gigs, including a planned performance at the BBC Music Awards in December.
Noah is thought to be undergoing four months of chemotherapy in a bid to recover from the illness.
Michael’s sister-in-law Daniela said doctors had given the tot a 90 percent chance of survival.
She explained: “Cancer is a horrible illness but we have faith in Noah being able to overcome this.
“We know he will. The time to start a long and very difficult treatment has come but it’s got to be done.”
Noah spent Christmas with his family in Los Angeles, where he is receiving treatment, instead of the family’s Vancouver mansion.
In a joint Facebook statement in November Michael and wife Luisana admitted they were “devastated” about Noah’s cancer diagnosis but vowed: “We will win this battle.”
Michael was announced as the new host of the Brits in October, taking over from previous presenters Ant and Dec.