FMU cancels April fundraising gala with Don McLean

Francis Marion University has canceled the April 2 fundraising gala and concert featuring American singer-songwriter Don McLean.

The university made the decision after receiving word that McLean, best-known for his hit “American Pie,” was arrested Jan. 18 on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge.

"In light of Mr. McLean’s recent issues, Francis Marion University has decided to cancel his April 2nd concert, which was also a fundraising gala for the university,” said Tucker Mitchell, executive director of public affairs for the university.

Francis Marion officials consulted with McLean’s team to ensure they understood the charges, Mitchell said.

But, he said, after giving it some thought, the university made the final call against hosting the concert.

“We support gender equity issues and all the provisions of Title IX,” Mitchell said. “That would be true of any university. It’s probably especially true of a university where two-thirds of the student body are women … and a significant number of faculty and staff.”

Court records said McLean’s wife filed a handwritten request for protection, but the two have now agreed to dismiss an order of protection case, according to a story written by the Associated Press.

McLean has since taken to Twitter to express his thoughts.

“I may never recover from this, but I will try and hope to continue to entertain you all as I always have,” he said in a tweet dated Jan. 21.

His wife, photographer Patrisha McLean, released a statement on the dismissal of the protection order.

“When I wrote out a statement in order to obtain a temporary protective order against my husband Don McLean I did not know it would be made public,” she said. “I did not intend to define Don or our relationship based solely on the events recounted in the statement.”

FMU’s fundraising gala will be held later, Mitchell said. But planning can be a process, so there is not a set rescheduling timeline.

The university is in the process of making individual calls to all ticket holders, explaining the situation and offering a refund.

Mitchell said it will take time, but every person who purchased tickets will be called.

Those with questions can call 843-661-1919 for more information.

The McLeans’ statements can be viewed in full at www.don-mclean.com or by searching @donmcleanonline on Twitter.