SAD NEWS: Music Icon D!es Aged Just 45 After Devastating Health Battle Takes Tragic Turn
New Found Glory guitarist and founding member Chad Gilbert has died aged 45 following his battle with a rare form of adrenal cancer.
The musician’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his bandmates announced the devastating news on September 20, revealing that Chad had died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by those closest to him.
Earlier this year, Chad underwent emergency surgery after doctors discovered three tumours in his brain.
In an emotional statement announcing his death, his loved ones said: “On the morning of September 20, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep.”
They continued: “He left this world surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished.”
The statement added that his family were “devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us”, while also feeling grateful that his final moments had been peaceful.
Family Pays Heartbreaking Tribute
Chad’s family and bandmates described the number of people who gathered at the hospital as a reflection of just how deeply loved he was.
“The amount of visitors that crowded the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice is a testament to how beloved and cherished Chad was, and always will be,” the statement read.
Although Chad was known around the world for his music, those closest to him said his greatest pride came from his family.
“He was a legendary musician, but his favourite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true.”
His New Found Glory bandmates also reflected on everything they achieved together over the years.
“Through more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings,” they said.
“While we are devastated to lose him, we are so grateful for the incredible life he lived, the memories we shared, and the brotherhood we had.”
They added that his influence would remain permanently connected to the band.
“His influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage we stand on, with every note we play.”
Three Brain Tumours Discovered Earlier This Year
Chad had faced a series of serious health challenges before his death.
In February 2026, he was rushed to A&E after experiencing worrying symptoms during a concert.
He had struggled to control his left hand while performing and also suffered a fall caused by weakness in his leg.
A CT scan subsequently revealed three tumours in his brain.
Doctors carried out emergency surgery to remove the tumours.
Cancer Battle Began in 2021
Chad had initially been diagnosed with cancer in December 2021 after doctors discovered a large tumour on his adrenal gland.
The cancer had spread to his liver, leading surgeons to remove the tumour along with half of his liver.
After the operation, Chad was declared cancer-free.
However, the disease returned only months later, this time affecting his spine.
He subsequently underwent another major procedure lasting six hours.
Further health concerns followed when nodules were discovered in his lungs, and Chad went through rounds of chemotherapy as doctors continued treating the disease.
His battle eventually led to the discovery of the three brain tumours earlier this year.
His Legacy With New Found Glory
Chad was a founding member of New Found Glory and became an important figure in the pop-punk scene through his decades with the group.
The band became particularly well known for tracks including My Friends Over You and went on to influence younger pop-punk acts, including All Time Low.
But in announcing his death, those closest to Chad made clear that his legacy extended far beyond records, tours and success on stage.
His family remembered him primarily as a husband and father, while his bandmates paid tribute to the friend and musician who had helped shape their lives for years.
For New Found Glory, Chad’s presence will remain woven into the band’s music even after his death.
As his bandmates put it, his spirit will continue to be felt “with every note we play”.
