Friday April 23, 12:28 pm Eastern Time Company Press Release Illness to Remove Grammy Winner Ray Stevens Temporarily from Performances NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--April 23, 1999--Grammy winner Ray Stevens has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and will undergo treatment as recommended by his doctors. Stevens debuted The Ray Stevens Show in the Roy Acuff Theatre at Opryland during November and December 1998. ``Our first priority is obviously Ray's health and well-being,'' said Jim Ditenhafer, vice president of operations of the Grand Ole Opry Group. ``We know Ray's fans will be disappointed that he won't be able to open the show on May 27 as planned. We are reviewing our options for a replacement show during his absence. We will make a determination at a later date as to whether he will be back this fall or during the holidays.'' ``Ray has been one of the most influential forces in music and video history during his 35-year career and while this situation will remove him temporarily from the limelight, we're sure he'll be back at the Acuff Theatre as soon as his doctor allows,'' said Ditenhafer. ``This diagnosis has come as a big surprise but I have complete confidence in my physician's ability to help me fight this disease,'' said Stevens. ``During this time of discovery, I've learned my cancer is in the early stages. I encourage every man over 50 years of age to get out and have a PSA test, which detects this disease. Prostate cancer is the most common, most curable form of cancer in men and my prognosis for recovery is excellent. I look forward to getting back to the music as soon as I possibly can.'' All individuals and groups who have already purchased tickets will be contacted directly. While the summer shows featuring Ray Stevens will not take place, a replacement show is under consideration. Plans are underway for the fall and holiday shows featuring Stevens at the Acuff Theatre. Anyone with immediate questions about The Ray Stevens Show at Opryland, including refunds, scheduling or securing replacement tickets for another show, should call 615/889-3060 for individual tickets or for group sales call 615/871-5993.
