Chad Gilbert of New Found Glory Passes Away at 45

Chad Gilbert, founding member and lead guitarist of the punk rock band New Found Glory, has passed away at 45. The announcement came from the band and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, through a joint Instagram post. The details of his passing were not specified, but Gilbert had been battling adrenal cancer since 2021 and underwent brain surgery in February for tumors.

On the morning of September 20th, Gilbert died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife and mother. The post expressed shock at how quickly he passed but gratitude for the peacefulness of his departure. Visitors crowded the hospital lobby, highlighting how beloved he was. Though a legendary musician, Gilbert valued being a husband and father the most. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.

New Found Glory members, including lead singer Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki, paid tribute to Gilbert for his profound impact on the band. His guitar skills, songwriting, humor, and drive shaped the band over nearly three decades. With more than a dozen albums and global tours, Gilbert’s influence encouraged growth among his bandmates as musicians and individuals.

Despite the loss, the band expressed gratitude for the life he led and the memories they shared. His spirit will remain a part of New Found Glory’s performances. Gilbert faced stage 4 adrenal cancer, first diagnosed in 2021, which spread to his spine, lungs, and brain. He underwent treatment for metastatic pheochromocytoma, a rare adrenal gland cancer, and later tackled a diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).

Post-surgery, Gilbert described his recovery as challenging but improving. In June, he returned to the stage in Nashville, performing with a mobility scooter. The emotional performance marked his chance to play in front of his daughter, a moment he thought he would never experience again. He expressed gratitude to his wife, along with the medical team that supported him.

Gilbert married Cimorelli in 2020 and shared daughter Lily with her. He was previously married to Eisley singer Sherri DuPree and Paramore lead singer Hayley Williams. Born on March 9, 1981, in Coral Springs, Florida, Gilbert helped form New Found Glory in 1997. The band’s 2002 album “Sticks and Stones” brought them fame with singles like “My Friends Over You.” Their 2004 album “Catalyst” continued their success. The band has released 12 studio albums and toured worldwide.

Apart from New Found Glory, Gilbert was active in hardcore music, involved with bands like Shai Hulud and International Superheroes of Hardcore. He also worked as a producer for artists such as A Day to Remember, H2O, and State Champs. Gilbert is remembered by fans and family, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.