Chad Gilbert, a founding member and lead guitarist of the influential pop-punk band New Found Glory, has passed away at the age of 45.

The death of the prolific musician, songwriter, and producer was confirmed on Sunday, September 20, by his bandmates and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli. Mr. Gilbert, who played a central role in shaping the trajectory of the pop-punk genre since the late 1990s, died peacefully in his sleep, according to an official statement issued by the group. His passing concludes a long and public struggle with complex medical issues, including a multi-year battle with cancer that he had documented with transparency for his supporters.

A Legacy of Musical Innovation

Born in Coral Springs, Florida, Chad Everett Gilbert was a cornerstone of the American punk-rock scene. In 1997, he co-founded New Found Glory alongside vocalist Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki. The quartet became synonymous with the "easycore" and pop-punk explosion of the early 2000s, helping bridge the gap between underground skate-punk and mainstream radio success.

Over the course of nearly three decades, Gilbert served as the creative engine for the band. His contributions extended far beyond guitar work; he was a primary songwriter for the group, helping to craft the melodic hooks and high-energy riffs that defined hit albums such as Sticks and Stones (2002) and Catalyst (2004). His influence on the genre was profound, with the band eventually releasing 11 studio albums, the most recent being Listen Up!, which arrived in February 2025.

Chronology of a Public Health Battle

The last several years of Mr. Gilbert’s life were defined by a series of significant health challenges that he navigated with noted resilience. His medical journey became a point of focus for the rock community, as he consistently provided updates to his fanbase to promote awareness and maintain a connection with those who supported his work.

• December 2021: Mr. Gilbert was rushed to the hospital after being found unresponsive by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli. Following an emergency medical evaluation, he was diagnosed with a pheochromocytoma—a rare, often benign tumor that originates in the adrenal gland. The tumor caused dangerous fluctuations in his blood pressure and blood sugar, requiring extensive surgery and a prolonged recovery period.
• March 2025: After returning to the stage, Gilbert faced further complications. He began experiencing a loss of motor control in his left hand during a performance in Nashville. Following medical testing, he announced that he was undergoing surgery to remove three tumors located in his brain.
• August 2025: Just months after his brain surgery, Gilbert revealed that his cancer had metastasized, with doctors identifying a new growth on his back. Despite the physical toll of these recurring diagnoses, he remained active in the band’s creative process, participating in the release of Listen Up! and the subsequent tour.
• September 20, 2026: Mr. Gilbert passed away surrounded by his family, including his wife and mother.

The Impact of His Passing

The news of Gilbert’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the music industry. The hospital where he spent his final days reportedly saw a surge of visitors from the touring and music community—a testament, as his bandmates noted, to his status as a "beloved and cherished" peer.

In a formal statement, the members of New Found Glory—Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, Cyrus Bolooki, and touring guitarist Dan O’Connor—expressed their profound grief. "We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went," the band wrote. "He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father."

The sentiment was echoed by prominent figures within the punk-rock circuit. Mark Hoppus of Blink-182, who has himself navigated a public cancer diagnosis, characterized Gilbert as a "joyous, courageous warrior." On social media, Hoppus wrote, "He never complained once, only kept saying how lucky he was. Today we lost a good one, and the world won’t be the same."

Musical Contributions and Industry Influence

New Found Glory’s significance in the evolution of modern rock cannot be overstated. By blending the aggressive speed of 1980s hardcore with the accessible melodies of 1990s pop, the band provided a template for dozens of subsequent acts. Gilbert’s role in this was multifaceted; he acted as a mentor to younger bands and remained a constant presence on the international touring circuit for nearly 30 years.

His production work and side projects, including the hardcore band Shai Hulud, where he served as a vocalist in his early career, demonstrated his versatility and technical prowess. His ability to move between genres while maintaining a distinct, recognizable sound helped sustain New Found Glory’s relevance in an industry that often discards legacy acts.

Implications for the Future of New Found Glory

The death of a founding member creates a significant void for any ensemble, particularly one as tightly knit as New Found Glory. The band has yet to announce plans regarding their future activities, though their statement emphasized that Gilbert’s influence would continue to be a foundational element of their identity.

"His influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage we stand on, with every note we play," the band stated. This acknowledgment suggests that while the group faces a period of mourning and transition, the material and ethos established by Gilbert over the last 29 years will likely remain central to their legacy.

Industry analysts note that the band’s resilience in the face of such adversity mirrors the themes present in much of their music—perseverance, emotional honesty, and the importance of community. As fans continue to process the news, the focus remains on the immense catalog of work Gilbert leaves behind and the indelible mark he placed on the pop-punk genre.

A Lasting Cultural Mark

The death of Chad Gilbert marks the end of a pivotal chapter in the history of alternative rock. Beyond the record sales and touring accolades, his legacy is cemented by the personal relationships he fostered with peers and fans alike. The outpouring of support from artists like William Ryan Key of Yellowcard and Anthony Raneri of Bayside highlights a man who prioritized connection and encouragement as much as his professional output.

As the music industry reflects on his life, the focus shifts to how his work will be preserved and honored. For many, his life serves as a blueprint for artistic integrity—a career built on the foundation of genuine friendship and a relentless, high-energy approach to creativity that never faltered, even in the face of insurmountable health odds.

In the final analysis, Chad Gilbert will be remembered not only as a guitarist who helped define a generation of music but as a person who faced his own mortality with the same intensity and positivity that he brought to every performance. As his peers have noted, the world of music is diminished by his loss, but his contributions to the craft of songwriting and the culture of the punk scene remain as permanent fixtures in the history of modern music.