Tenor Jonas Kaufmann Withdraws from La Scala’s Opening Night

Kaufmann cites family reasons for stepping down from Verdi’s 'La Forza del Destino,' with Brian Jagde stepping in for the December 7 performance.

Jonas Kaufmann, 55, has announced his withdrawal from the December 7 opening night of Milan’s Teatro alla Scala due to family reasons.
Kaufmann was set to perform the role of Alvaro in a new production of Verdi’s 'La Forza del Destino,' alongside Anna Netrebko and Ludovic Tézier.
American tenor Brian Jagde will replace Kaufmann in the role for the high-profile event, which coincides with Milan’s St. Ambrose holiday celebrations.
Kaufmann expressed regret for missing the performance but emphasized the importance of family, especially in Italy’s cultural context.
Despite this cancellation, Kaufmann remains scheduled to perform with Netrebko on November 29 at La Scala in a tribute concert marking the 100th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini’s death.