Toby Keith Photos Go Viral After Career Hiatus

Toby Keith made a rare appearance on stage as he marked his return to live performing following his cancer diagnosis.

Keith, 62, was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2021, and took an indefinite break from recording new music and performing live.

But he hit the stage in style in Las Vegas for the first of three sold-out shows there.

The country music singer clearly treasured the moment, labeling it "triumphant."

"It was a triumphant return. One hell of a night in Vegas. Ready to do it all over again tonight. #TobyInVegas," Keith posted to social media.

He also posted a series of photos from the concert and backstage on X, formerly Twitter, in a viral post that has already been viewed 138,000 times.

Keith's fans celebrated his comeback.

"We made it. Fantastic performance and a truly wonderful experience. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!" replied one person to his post.

Another added: "Great show brother, first time seeing you live. The big dog has returned with vengeance. You and your band sounded so dam good.
You are one of a kind, and my gal and I were so blessed to be able to see your return. Stay strong 💪"

And a third wrote: "You look great. And I know you sounded great. Hope to see you in Greenville SC soon."

Keith's most recent performance before his Las Vegas shows was in September at the People's Choice Country Awards (PCCA) in Nashville, where he was named an icon of country music.

"It's nice to recognize my 30-year career," he told E! News on the red carpet ahead of receiving the award, adding: "It's pretty mind-boggling.

"Those years of pounding those songs out and remembering where you were when each one was conceived, it's amazing."

Keith also gave a tear-jerking acceptance speech, which he opened with a joke.

"I bet you never thought y'all'd see me in skinny jeans," he joked. "I want to thank the Almighty for allowing me to be here tonight, he's been riding shotgun with me for a little while now.

"I want to thank my beautiful family that's here...Most of all. I want to thank the fans for still allowing us to do what we do. Have a wonderful evening, thank you."

Keith has been in the country charts for 30 years with songs like: "Should've Been a Cowboy," "How Do You Like Me Now?!," "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)," and "I Love This Bar."

The singer also dedicates his time to raising money for pediatric cancer patients through his Toby Keith Foundation and owns a popular fishing supplies business.