The pop-punk community is grieving the loss of one of its most influential figures. Chad Gilbert, founding guitarist of New Found Glory, died in his sleep on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the age of 45. His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, announced the news on Instagram, sharing that he was surrounded by loved ones and took his final breaths with her and his mother by his side.
Gilbert had been diagnosed with brain cancer earlier this year after a February show in Nashville led to a CT scan that revealed three tumors. He underwent successful brain surgery in March and shared his health journey with fans. His previous cancer battle came in 2021, when he fought liver cancer. Through it all, he remained a driving creative force in the band he helped build nearly three decades ago.
New Found Glory’s surviving members Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, and Cyrus Bolooki paid tribute to Gilbert, saying his guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape the band for nearly three decades. He is survived by his wife Lisa and their 5-year-old daughter, Lily. What’s the New Found Glory song that means the most to you?
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Local Lawton
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