LATEST: R+B star USHER has been forced to cancel his remaining appearances in Broadway musical Chicago, after failing to shake off a bout of the flu.

The singer, real name Usher Raymond, has been playing slick lawyer BILLY FLYNN in the production since 22 August (06).

But he fell ill last Friday (06OCT06) and has now cancelled all of his performances up until the end of his run on 14 October (06).

Usher's manager JONNETTA PATTON says, "Usher has had an amazing time on Broadway and loved every minute of performing on stage with the entire cast of Chicago.

"He expresses his sincere apologies to all of his fans who purchased tickets to see him in Chicago this final week and appreciates all of their love and support."

The show's producer BARRY WEISSLER pays tribute to poorly Usher: "Usher made a spectacular Broadway debut, bringing a great dedication, work ethic and his amazing talent to the show.

"We all hope that he might return at some point for the many fans that were unable to see his wonderful performance as Billy Flynn.

"Usher has found a new home on Broadway and is welcome back anytime."

Understudy BERNARD DOTSON will play Flynn until Christopher McDonald takes over the part on 15 October (06).