Image Source: Getty / Samir Hussein [1]

Amid growing COVID-19 concerns, Charli XCX [2]'s Saturday Night Live [3] performance was cancelled. The "Boom Clap" singer was all set to perform with Caroline Polachek and Christine and the Queens during SNL's 18 Dec. episode. In addition, the show's cast was downsized and the live audience was removed due to the rise of the Omicron variant in New York City. The decision was announced roughly eight hours before showtime.

"Due to the recent spike in the Omicron variant and out of an abundance of caution, there will be no live audience for tonight's taping of Saturday Night Live [4] and the show will have limited cast and crew," the show tweeted on 18 Dec. "The show continues to follow all government safety guidelines in addition to a rigorous testing protocol."

Charli took to Instagram to address the disappointing news. "Due to the limited crew at tonight's taping of SNL my musical performances will no longer be able to go ahead. I am devastated and heartbroken," the 29-year-old artist wrote. "Myself, Caroline, Christine and all of our crews and teams have worked so hard all week alongside the SNL team to bring the most amazing musical performance to live. She added, "It can't happen this time, but I'll be back! I am verdantly safe and healthy but of course very sad. Please look after yourselves out there and make sure you get vaccinated if you haven't already. Lots of love, Charli."

Meanwhile, Paul Rudd [5] hosted last night's episode, solidifying his spot in SNL's Five-Timers Club. Watch the clip below!