Chad Gilbert has sadly passed away at the age of 45. He was a founding member and lead guitarist for the pop-punk heavy-hitters New Found Glory. The band announced Gilbert's death in a social media post.
Videos by Wide Open Country
"On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep," the band wrote. "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 update then continued by expressing their shock at the loss.
"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... He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true."
The statement was then followed by a statement from his bandmates.
"Chad's guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades," the statement said. "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 Tribute to Chad Gilbert Detailed the Heartbreak His Family and Bandmates Feel
The heartfelt tribute shared just how much Gilbert's loss has hurt those around him. However, it also took a moment to remember the impact he'd had on those around him, including his bandmates.
"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."
Currently, there is no information regarding Gilbert's death. Though, he announced in April 2026 that a rare cancer he had been battling had changed from metastatic pheochromocytoma to adrenocortical carcinoma, stage 4. The story is still developing, and as such, more information will naturally become available in the coming days. For now, his bandmates, family, and millions of fans will undoubtedly be in a state of shock.
Due to the nature of the situation, Gilbert's family will undoubtedly ask for privacy.
"He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian," the social media post said.
