VIDEO: Houston, We Have A Problem: Whitney's Blunder Down Under

Feb. 23 2010, Published 4:30 a.m. ET

Whitney Houston laid an egg on the opening night of her Australian tour, RadarOnline.com has learned, as the diva reportedly appeared disoriented, breathless and exhausted during her first Aussie concert in a dozen years.

Whitney Houston Throws A Diva Fit Down Under

The 46-year-old coughed, wheezed and even paused during her set at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Monday night, according to the Associated Foreign Press. She also failed to properly name some of her backing band as she introduced them to the audience.

Article continues below advertisement

Houston's management team defended the diva, denying she was ill during the performance and saying it it was "happy'' with the opening performance -- but fans and music journalists are blasting the gig.

"She couldn't entertain a dead rat, to be honest," a fan told local media, according to the AFP.

Even the promoter who brought Houston to Australia has admitted she was not up to standard.

"Was it an A? No, it was probably a B+," said Andrew McManus, "It was not a train wreck. She was hitting most of the notes, yes her throat was a little croaky. She was on stage for two-and-a-half hours dancing, singing, running. Was she a little out of breath on a couple of songs? Yes, she was. But I don't apologize for that, she had a red-hot go."

Houston will have two days' rest before her next performance in Sydney on February 24.

Image of a woman with shocked expression

Never Miss an

Daily updates from the heart of Hollywood, right to your inbox

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

VIDEO: Houston, We Have A Problem: Whitney's Blunder Down Under

Never Miss an

Beyoncé 'Feeling Lifted' Over Grammy Nods For 'Cowboy Carter' Album Amid Jay-Z Rape Scandal — After Brutal Snub From Country Music Big-Wigs

'Saltburn' Badboy Barry Keoghan 'Seeking Change in Custody Set-Up' As He's 'Raging' Over Being Branded 'Deadbeat Dad'