METALLICA have cancelled their upcoming tour as their frontman James Hetfield entered rehab yesterday.

The heartbroken band revealed the devastating news on Twitter on Friday and apologised to fans.

The statement says Hetfield has struggled with addiction for years and has re-entered a treatment program.

Although it didn’t elaborate, the heavy metal band’s members said they appreciate fans’ understanding and support of the 56-year-old Metallica co-founder.

"We are truly sorry to inform our fans and friends that we must postpone our upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand," wrote drummer Lars Ulrich, guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Rob Trujillo.

"As most of you probably know, our brother James has been struggling with addiction on and off for many years.

"He has no, unfortunately had to re-enter a treatment program to work on his recovery again," they said.

"We are devastated that we have inconvenienced so many of you, especially our most loyal fans who travel great distances to experience our shows," they said, adding their thanks to fans for their support of Hetfield.

The statement says anyone who purchased tickets for the remaining show dates in Australia and New Zealand will receive automatic refunds.

The band had been scheduled to play five Australian cities from Oct. 17-29, followed by four shows in New Zealand.

most read in tv & showbiz

Metallica have been together since 1981 and have won 9 Grammy Awards,

Hetfield documented his journey into rehab in 2002 in the movie, Some Kind of Monster.

He has three children with wife Francesca Tomasi.

Lady Gaga and Metallica's duet is plagued by sound issues at the Grammys

Got a story? email digishowbiz@the-sun.co.uk or call us direct on 02077824220.

We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKynZpOke7a3jq2tmqaUqLWww8GisWhpYGV%2FdH6XcGamnaSWua21wppknJmemLKtedOorKtllqe8r8DMmqVmopGisrR5x56rn6GVobFuvsShmJtn