New Found Glory Founder Chad Gilbert Dies at 45 After Years of Cancer Treatment

Key points

• Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory's founding guitarist, died on September 20, 2026, at age 45.
• His wife Lisa Cimorelli announced he died 'peacefully in his sleep' with his wife and mother by his side.
• Gilbert had been battling a rare adrenal cancer since 2021, with his diagnosis progressing to stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma by April 2026.
• The band and family released a joint statement expressing devastation but gratitude for his peaceful passing.
• Tributes poured in from peers including Dashboard Confessional, Good Charlotte, and Matthew Koma.
• Gilbert is survived by his wife, daughter Lily, mother Jackie, and brother Brian.

Background

Gilbert formed New Found Glory in 1997 in Coral Springs, Florida, with Jordan Pundik, Steve Klein, Ian Grushka, and Joe Moreno. The band released their debut album 'Nothing Gold Can Stay' in 1999 and achieved mainstream success with hits like 'My Friends Over You' and 'Vicious Love.' Gilbert had been publicly documenting his cancer battle since 2021, when his wife found him unresponsive at home. He underwent surgery to remove a pheochromocytoma tumor in December 2021, followed by further treatments in 2022 and 2023. By February 2026, he lost control of his left hand during a show, leading to the discovery of three brain tumors. He made a comeback to the stage in June 2026 with the assistance of a mobility scooter. The band's most recent album, 'Listen Up!', was released in February 2026.

How outlets are covering it

All three sources (Deadline, NBC News, USA Today) confirm the core facts of Gilbert's death on September 20, 2026, at age 45, and his peaceful passing. Deadline and USA Today provide detailed timelines of his cancer battle, noting the progression from pheochromocytoma to stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma. NBC News emphasizes the tributes from fellow artists, including Dashboard Confessional and Good Charlotte. USA Today provides additional context on Gilbert's personal life, including his past relationship with Hayley Williams of Paramore. All sources agree on the joint statement from Cimorelli and the band, highlighting his legacy as a musician and his role as a husband and father.

Why it matters

Gilbert's death marks the end of a significant chapter in pop-punk music, as he was a founding member of New Found Glory, a band that helped define the genre in the late 1990s and early 2000s. His public battle with cancer and his continued engagement with fans through social media made him a relatable figure for many. His passing has sparked widespread tributes from peers and fans, highlighting his impact on the music industry and his personal resilience. The band has upcoming shows scheduled for October and November, including the Vans Warped Tour Orlando, which may be affected by his death.

What to watch

The band New Found Glory has upcoming shows scheduled for October and November, including the Vans Warped Tour Orlando. It is unclear how these shows will be handled following Gilbert's death. Tributes from fans and fellow artists are expected to continue in the coming days. The band and family may release further statements or details regarding funeral arrangements or memorial events. Gilbert's legacy as a musician and his public advocacy for cancer awareness will likely be remembered in the pop-punk community.