Bret Michaels Steps Out Of Great American State Fair Lineup: ‘This Isn’t About Politics’

Bret Michaels won’t be performing at the Great American State Fair.

The ex-Poison singer has scratched his name from the line-up, a 16-day free festival in Washington, D.C., running June 25 through July 10 on the National Mall to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. He becomes the sixth act to walk away since the music program was announced on Wednesday, May 27 by Freedom 250.

“Unfortunately,” he writes in a lengthy social post, “what was presented to us as a celebration of our country has evolved into something much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of. Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of my fans, band, crew, family and myself, including threats that are completely unfounded and unforgivable.”

Because of that, he continues, “I have made the difficult decision to step away from this performance.”

The Great American State Fair is operated by Freedom 250, a not-for-profit organization created by a task force under the Trump administration to plan and spearhead the United States’ official semiquincentennial anniversary celebrations.

“This isn’t about politics,” says Michaels of his decision. “It’s about staying true to what I’ve always believed in. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions. That’s one of the freedoms our veterans fought for and something I’ve always respected. But as a father, friend and bandmate, I have to take threats and safety concerns seriously.”

As a member of Poison, Michaels landed 12 titles on the Billboard Hot 100, including a No. 1 with 1988’s “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” which paced the chart for three weeks. The rockers also bagged 12 entries on the Billboard 200, including three top 10s. As a solo artist, Michaels has bagged three titles on the Billboard 200.

Michael’s Great American State Fair u-turn follows the exits of Morris Day & The Time, Young MC, Milli Vanilli and Martina McBride. Artists still on the bill include Vanilla Ice and C+C Music Factory, who are doubling down on their involvement. Flo Rida has yet to comment.

Poison is currently celebrating its own anniversary — 40 years since the release of the glam metal band’s 1986 studio album, Look What the Cat Dragged In. Michaels insists his Live and Amplified Tour 2026 won’t be affected by his call to pull out of the Great American State Fair.