Judas Priest founder and bassist Ian Hill announced his retirement due to health complications.
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Judas Priest released a statement via Instagram on Oct. 9 announcing that the legendary bassist was stepping down due to chronic arthritis. Uriah Heep's Dave Rimmer will replace him.
"It is with heavy hearts that we are sending out this personal message from our Ian. He has been the backbone of JUDAS PRIEST for so long and will be greatly missed by us all. We wish him well in his retirement and welcome Davey into the PRIEST family."
Hill wrote: "Hello everyone, for a long time now, when asked, 'How long can you continue?', I've always answered 'until my performances suffer'.... I hate to say it, but that time has come.
"For some years now, I've been struggling with the onset of the evil arthritis, which is now in an advanced state in my left shoulder and right hand, established in my right shoulder, and present in both knees. I've been fighting this with painkilling pills, gels, and recently with cortisone injections in my shoulder and hand."
Rock Legends Congratulate Ian Hill on Retirement
Several rock stars have paid tribute to Hill on social media, congratulating him on his storied five-decade-spanning career.
Slayer and Exodus guitarist Gary Holt commented, "Thank you for all the years you've given to all of us."
Frank Bello of Anthrax also praised Hill's iconic career, saying, "Happy retirement Ian!! You've been showing us all the way to do it. We've loved & respected every minute of it. Congratulations on an amazing career! I wish you and family great health and happiness. Peace & love, my friend."
Alice In Chains bassist Mike Inez wrote: Happy retirement Ian!! It's been a pleasure to watch and hear you all of these years. It's an honor to know you and all of us bassists respect everything you have given to the heavy music community! Thank you."
"One of my favorites and such an absolute gentleman," Finger Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael wrote on X.
Ian Hill has been the bassist for Judas Priest since the band debuted in 1974.
