Chad Gilbert of New Found Glory Dies at 45

Chad Gilbert, founding member and lead guitarist for the punk rock band New Found Glory, passed away at the age of 45. The band and Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, shared the news through an Instagram post. Although the cause of death was not specified, it was known that Gilbert battled adrenal cancer since 2021 and had brain surgery for tumors in February.

In the Instagram post, they stated: “On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep. He left this world surrounded by friends and family, taking his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished.” Gilbert’s family includes his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.

New Found Glory acknowledged Gilbert’s significant impact on their music and the personal connections they shared. They wrote, “Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive shaped New Found Glory for nearly three decades. His influence will always remain a part of the band.” Gilbert’s involvement contributed to the band’s success over the years.

Gilbert was open about his fight against stage 4 adrenal cancer, which was first diagnosed in 2021. It later spread to his spine, lungs, and brain. Initially, he was diagnosed with metastatic pheochromocytoma, a rare cancer that affects the adrenal glands. In February, Gilbert shared with People magazine about the weakness and difficulties he faced while the band was promoting their album “Listen Up!” After collapsing at home, scans revealed three brain tumors, one of which required emergency surgery.

Despite the challenges, Gilbert returned to perform with New Found Glory during their tour stop in Nashville, Tennessee, in June. He played on stage with a mobility scooter, expressing his emotional experience through an Instagram post, “I got to play a show in front of my daughter, something I never thought I’d get to do again.” Gilbert shared how his wife and the medical staff helped him get through the ordeal.

Born on March 9, 1981, in Coral Springs, Florida, Gilbert helped found New Found Glory in 1997. The band gained fame with the 2002 album “Sticks and Stones,” reaching No. 4 on the Billboard 200 with hit singles “My Friends Over You” and “Head On Collision.” Their follow-up album, “Catalyst,” peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard chart.

Throughout his career, Gilbert contributed to other musical projects as well. He was known for his work with Shai Hulud and as a producer for bands like A Day to Remember, H2O, and State Champs. He also collaborated with Fall Out Boy.

Chad Gilbert’s legacy continues with his contributions to music and dedication to his family.

He is survived by his wife, daughter, mother, and brother.