Ayra Starr Returns to Rehearsals After Major Surgery Setback
Two-time Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has returned to rehearsals just days after revealing she recently underwent major surgery, marking one of her first public appearances since sharing the health update with fans.
The 24-year-old shared a video of herself on Friday rehearsing alongside dancers ahead of a scheduled performance on NBC’s TODAY show at Rockefeller Center in New York City. A bandage was visible on her body throughout portions of the rehearsal footage. Inviting fans to attend the performance, Ayra Starr wrote a message encouraging her New York-based followers to come see her perform on the TODAY show the following morning.
The rehearsal comes shortly after the singer disclosed, in a July 30 Instagram Story, that she had undergone major surgery and had been dealing with a more difficult recovery than she initially anticipated. Addressing her fans, whom she affectionately calls her “Mobstarrs,” she apologised for her reduced presence online, explaining that while she had hoped for a quick recovery, the process turned out to be more complicated than doctors had expected. She did not disclose the specific nature of the surgery or the underlying health condition that led to it, but assured fans she needed only a short period of rest before returning to her usual schedule.
Despite the setback, Ayra Starr continued to actively promote her forthcoming project, “Starrgirl,” throughout her recovery period. In a separate social media update shared during her time away, she revealed that she had personally signed copies of the album’s vinyl records and CD inserts for fans who had pre-ordered the project, encouraging supporters to continue spreading the word ahead of its release.
Friday’s rehearsal footage signals a gradual return to public activity for the singer as she prepares to resume promotional duties surrounding “Starrgirl,” which is expected for release later in August 2026. Fans reacted warmly to the update, with many expressing relief and continued support as she works her way back to full health while balancing preparations for the new project’s rollout.
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