Hayley Williams and Mark Hoppus Honor Late New Found Glory Guitarist Chad Gilbert
Chad Gilbert, the founding guitarist of New Found Glory, died at 45 on September 20, 2026, after a prolonged battle with cancer. His ex-wife, Paramore singer Hayley Williams, and Blink-182 bassist Mark Hoppus both shared emotional tributes, highlighting his profound influence on the early 2000s punk and emo scenes. While Williams emphasized his role in shaping her connection to hardcore culture, Hoppus recalled their personal bond and Gilbert’s resilience during his illness.
Key points
- Chad Gilbert died peacefully in his sleep on September 20, 2026, surrounded by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his mother.
- Gilbert had been diagnosed with stage four adrenocortical carcinoma after doctors discovered three brain tumors, including one described as the size of a walnut.
- Hayley Williams posted a tribute on Instagram, stating she had delayed commenting but felt compelled to honor his impact on the music community.
- Mark Hoppus described Gilbert as a 'little brother' and a 'champion of joy,' recalling their friendship during tours and studio sessions.
- New Found Glory, formed in 1997, has released 14 studio albums, with their most recent, 'Listen Up!', released in 2026.
Background
Gilbert’s death follows a public health journey that began in 2021 with a diagnosis of metastatic pheochromocytoma. In early 2026, he revealed the discovery of brain tumors and underwent surgery in February. Our archive notes that tributes from peers like Hoppus and Williams emerged shortly after his passing, reflecting the close-knit nature of the Warped Tour era.
How outlets are covering it
Variety and Stereogum focused heavily on Hayley Williams’ public statement, noting the estrangement between the couple following their 2017 divorce. In contrast, Rolling Stone highlighted Mark Hoppus’ personal account, emphasizing their long-standing friendship and shared experiences with cancer. The Guardian provided a clinical overview of his medical history, detailing the progression from adrenal cancer to brain tumors, while noting the family’s decision not to disclose the specific cause of death in their initial statement.
Why it matters
Gilbert’s death marks the end of an era for the pop-punk genre, as he was a key figure in defining the sound and culture of the early 2000s. His influence extended beyond music, as he was known for fostering community and supporting fellow artists, a legacy now being honored by peers across the industry.
What to watch
New Found Glory is expected to continue touring, with shows scheduled in Orlando, Florida, and Sacramento, California. The band has stated that Gilbert’s spirit will be felt on every stage they perform, honoring his contributions to their nearly three-decade career.
- Hayley Williams Shares Statement On The Death Of Ex-Husband Chad Gilbert Stereogum
- Hayley Williams Speaks Out on Death of Ex-Husband Chad Gilbert: ‘Have Not Known If It’s Appropriate’ to Comment, but ‘I Will Forever Be Grateful’ Variety
- Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory’s founding guitarist, dies aged 45 The Guardian
- Mark Hoppus Remembers New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert: 'I Miss You Already, Little Brother' Rolling Stone
- Pop-punk star’s death at 45 shocks music world: ‘I owe so much to him’ syracuse.com
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Stereogum