Gennadi Avramenko/Epsilon/Getty ImagesMadonna is just your average mother—her kids come first.
The Material Mom issued an apology to her Australian fans today for her decision to cancel an MDNA Tour stop in early 2013, what would have been her first shows Down Under in 20 years.
"So, I just want to say to all of my Australian fans that I am really and truly sorry to have disappointed you, and that's something that I don't feel very good about," Madonna said in an audio message posted on her website.
"I know the last time I was on tour, I missed Australia as well, and I can promise you in my heart of hearts that it was my intention to come again, but like the last time, my children are my first priority. I have two scales that I have to weigh in front of me—my job as a singer and entertainer, and my job as a mother.
"Because my children are older, I can't take them on the road with me everywhere," she continued. "I have to spend more time away from them and at the end of the year I really feel that I would be an irresponsible parent if I didn't stop my tour and spend time with them."
"My daughter's going to be leaving home soon, she's almost 16 years old," she added, making those of us who remember when Lourdes was born feel, well...16 years older than we were at the time.
"I feel really bad," Madonna said, "because I don't take your love and support for me for granted...that goes for my fans everywhere in the world...I know a lot of you are angry with me, upset with me, disappointed."
She concluded: "So, please forgive me, and know that when I do come to Australia, I will have made the wait worth your while and I will put on the greatest show on Earth. I haven't forgotten about you and I hope that you can understand and forgive me and, also, I just want to say that I love you, all of you, everyone in Australia, and I hope to get there very soon."
Considering they've been promised the best show ever, we bet the Aussies can't wait, either!