Chad Gilbert, lead guitarist and founding member of Florida pop-punk band New Found Glory, has died at the age of 45 following a battle with cancer. His family and band confirmed his passing in a joint statement released on Sunday, September 20.
Passing and Official Statement
Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of September 20, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife Lisa Cimorelli and mother Jackie. His passing came six months after undergoing surgery in 2026 to remove three brain tumors. He was originally diagnosed with liver cancer in 2021 and had a spinal tumor removed in 2022.
"He left this world surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished,"
the official statement shared, noting the overwhelming crowd of visitors in the hospital lobby as a testament to how cherished he was. The band added that Gilbert's guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades.
Personal & Family Details
- Age: 45
- Survived By: Wife Lisa Cimorelli, daughter Lily, mother Jackie, and brother Brian
- Key Accomplishment: The statement highlighted that while he was a legendary musician, his favorite role was being a husband and father.
Musical Legacy and Career Highlights
Gilbert helped establish New Found Glory in 1997, contributing to more than a dozen albums and extensive international tours throughout his career. Prior to forming the pop-punk group, he served as the lead singer for hardcore band Shai Hulud from 1995 to 1998, later returning from 2012 to 2013.
| Role / Group | Details & Projects |
|---|---|
| New Found Glory | Co-founder and lead guitarist (1997–2026) |
| Shai Hulud | Vocalist (1995–1998, 2012–2013) |
| Producer Credits | A Day to Remember (Homesick, What Separates Me from You, Common Courtesy), H2O (Nothing to Prove), State Champs (The Finer Things) |
| Other Projects | Hazen Street, International Superheroes of Hardcore, solo project What's Eating Gilbert |
