Chad Gilbert, a founding member and the lead guitarist of the acclaimed punk rock band New Found Glory, has passed away at 45 years old.
The news of Gilbert's death was shared by the band and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, in a joint announcement on social media. The post did not specify a cause of death, though Gilbert had been publicly battling adrenal cancer since 2021 and underwent brain surgery in February following the discovery of tumors.
On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep. 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 conveyed the profound grief felt by his loved ones.
We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went. 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. He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.
New Found Glory Remembers a Brother
New Found Glory, which includes lead singer Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki, issued a heartfelt tribute to Gilbert, emphasizing his profound impact on the band's identity and their personal bond.
Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades. 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.
The band expressed their deep sorrow while also celebrating his life.
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. 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. Rest in peace, Chad. We love you forever.
Gilbert's Health Battle and Public Journey
Gilbert had been transparent about his fight with stage 4 adrenal cancer, initially diagnosed in 2021, which subsequently spread to his spine, lungs, and brain. The initial diagnosis was metastatic pheochromocytoma, a rare form of adrenal gland cancer that develops within the inner part of the gland.
In an interview in February, Gilbert revealed that while promoting New Found Glory's latest album,
