New Found Glory guitarist and founding member Chad Gilbert passed away peacefully Sunday morning at his home, surrounded by loved ones. He was 45 years old.
Gilbert’s bandmates and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, confirmed his death in a statement released Sunday, noting that he spent his final moments with his wife and mother at his bedside, exactly as he had wished. The family expressed both devastation at the swiftness of his passing and gratitude for the peaceful manner in which he departed this life.
The guitarist had been battling adrenal cancer since 2021, a struggle he shared openly with his fans and the public. In April of this year, Gilbert disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma, a particularly aggressive form of the disease. His wife told reporters at the time that this diagnosis significantly shortened his expected lifespan. Throughout his illness, Gilbert maintained communication with his supporters, regularly posting updates and photographs from his hospital visits on social media.
Gilbert’s musical legacy spans nearly three decades. He co-founded New Found Glory in Florida in 1997, helping to shape the pop punk movement that defined a generation of American rock music. The band produced numerous hits that became anthems for young Americans, including “My Friends Over You,” “Vicious Love,” “Stay Awhile,” and “Ready and Willing.” Their most recent album, released this past February, demonstrated Gilbert’s continued commitment to his craft even as he fought his illness.
His bandmates paid tribute to his contributions, noting that his guitar playing, songwriting abilities, humor, and unwavering determination helped define New Found Glory’s sound and success. Through more than a dozen albums and countless international tours, Gilbert pushed his fellow musicians to excellence, challenging them to grow both artistically and personally.
The band has maintained an active touring schedule in recent months, with performances scheduled through November, including an appearance at the Vans Warped Tour in Orlando.
News of Gilbert’s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the music industry. Fellow musicians, including members of Good Charlotte, Dashboard Confessional, the Offspring, Taking Back Sunday, and the Ataris, shared their memories and expressed their grief. Dashboard Confessional particularly praised Gilbert’s positive attitude and strength throughout his illness, calling him an example to all who knew him.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, those closest to Gilbert emphasized his devotion to family. His bandmates and wife noted that while he achieved legendary status in the music world, his greatest pride came from his roles as husband and father.
Gilbert is survived by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli; his daughter, Lily; his mother, Jackie; and his brother, Brian.
As the statement from his family and bandmates concluded, Chad Gilbert lived to see his biggest dreams realized, leaving behind a musical legacy that will endure for generations to come.
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