New Found Glory founding member and guitarist Chad Gilbert has died at 45 after battling cancer. His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and the band confirmed his death on Sept. 20.
Gilbert’s death was announced in a joint statement from New Found Glory and Cimorelli.
The statement said his wife and mother were with him during his final moments and identified his wife, daughter Lily, mother Jackie and brother Brian as survivors.
Gilbert’s musical career with New Found Glory began when he helped form the Florida pop-punk band alongside Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka and Stephen Klein.
His songwriting and guitar work became central to the group’s catalog, including songs such as “My Friends Over You” and “Head on Collision.”
New Found Glory emerged in 1997 and became a notable part of the pop-punk scene. AllMusic described the band’s music as fast-paced anthems, while Alternative Press highlighted its combination of punk melodies and hardcore elements.
Gilbert also contributed beyond his own band, including guest vocals connected to Fall Out Boy and guitar work on the group’s 2007 song “The Take Over, The Breaks Over.”
He was previously married to Paramore singer Hayley Williams. Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus paid tribute to Gilbert, recalling him as a positive and creative presence.
Hoppus, who also battled cancer after a 2021 diagnosis, praised Gilbert’s courage during his illness. In an April interview with Rolling Stone, Gilbert discussed his treatment and efforts to remain positive.
Earlier in 2026, New Found Glory also honored him during a Vans Warped Tour performance after he became unable to perform because tumors had affected sensation on the left side of his body.
