Dan Aykroyd has postponed the release of his debut novel, Soulhider, after undergoing emergency foot surgery to treat an infection.
The Canadian-American actor and writer said the operation also made it impossible for him to take part in the book tour planned for October and November.
He now expects the novel to be released on May 18, 2027, when he anticipates being fully recovered.
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Why Dan Aykroyd delayed Soulhider
Aykroyd disclosed the change in a public social-media update dated September 12, 2026.
He said the surgery took place about two weeks earlier and was needed to clean out an infection in his foot.
He described the delay as disappointing because he wanted to meet readers and promote the project in person, but said the recovery period prevented him from proceeding with the original autumn schedule.
No additional medical details or diagnosis have been publicly confirmed beyond Aykroyd’s description of the infection and surgery.
What Soulhider is about
Soulhider is a science-fiction novel centred on Doug Beeston, an ordinary insurance adjuster who is recruited by alien beings for an unusual mission involving human souls hidden around Earth.
The story develops into a conflict involving multiple alien species and an interdimensional power struggle, with Beeston caught between forces whose motives he does not fully understand.
The publisher description presents the book as a speculative adventure combining humour, suspense and paranormal themes.
The premise draws on Aykroyd’s long-standing interest in UFOs, unexplained phenomena and the supernatural, interests that have also shaped parts of his entertainment work.
New release date and audiobook plans
The revised publication date for Soulhider is May 18, 2027.
Bibliographic information identifies HarperCollins as the publisher and lists the novel at 272 pages.
Aykroyd also said he recorded the audiobook himself after initially feeling uncertain about taking on the narration.
He indicated that he was pleased with the finished version.
The original publication plan had placed the book in the autumn of 2026, with one publishing listing identifying October 27, 2026, as the earlier date.
The May 2027 date reflects the postponement announced after his surgery.
What happens next for Dan Aykroyd
Aykroyd said he expects to meet readers during a rescheduled spring promotional period rather than continuing with the cancelled October and November appearances.
The delay comes as the actor remains connected to several projects tied to his long-running interest in the paranormal, including television work and public appearances related to Ghostbusters and unexplained phenomena.
For now, the immediate next step is recovery from the foot operation and preparation for the revised publication campaign.
Any changes to the May 18, 2027, date would need to come from Aykroyd or the publisher.
Why the update matters to readers
- Release date: May 18, 2027.
- Reason for delay: Recovery from emergency foot surgery to treat an infection.
- Original plan: An autumn 2026 release and October-November promotional tour.
- Format: Print and audiobook editions are planned, with Aykroyd narrating the audiobook.
Soulhider marks Aykroyd’s first novel and expands his creative work beyond the films, television projects and music-related ventures that established his public career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Dan Aykroyd postpone Soulhider?
Aykroyd said he underwent emergency foot surgery to clean out an infection and would not be able to complete the planned fall book tour.
When will Dan Aykroyd’s Soulhider be released?
The revised release date is May 18, 2027.
What is Soulhider about?
The science-fiction novel follows an ordinary insurance adjuster who becomes involved in a conflict between alien forces after being given a mission involving human souls.
Is Dan Aykroyd narrating the Soulhider audiobook?
Yes. Aykroyd said he recorded the audiobook himself and was pleased with the result.
Will Dan Aykroyd still tour for Soulhider?
Aykroyd said he hopes to meet readers during a rescheduled spring promotional period after he has recovered.
Fact-Checked: Key release, publishing and recovery details were checked against Aykroyd’s public update and available publisher and bibliographic information.
Disclaimer: The article includes only the medical information publicly disclosed by Dan Aykroyd and does not assess his condition or recovery.