Elton John hospitalized with respiratory infection

Elton John is being treated for a "serious respiratory infection" in a Los Angeles hospital.

The pop legend fell ill while performing his "Million Dollar Piano" show at The Colosseum in Las Vegas' Caesars Palace on Saturday night (May 20) and his condition has worsened this week, according to a statement posted on his website.

He was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center on Wednesday morning (May 23) and doctors recommended that he abstain from performing for seven days and undergo antibiotic treatment for the illness. As a result, his Las Vegas concerts scheduled for May 24, 25 and 27 have been cancelled.

"It feels strange not to be able to perform these 'Million Dollar Piano' concerts at The Colosseum," he said in a statement. "I love performing this show and I will be thrilled when we return to The Colosseum in October to complete the eleven concerts soon to be scheduled. All I can say to the fans is sorry I can't be with you. I hope to see you soon at this wonderful theatre at Caesars Palace."

Ticket holders for the cancelled shows can exchange or refund their tickets at the original point of purchase.