Chuck Varga, founding member of GWAR, dies at 68

Chuck Varga, a founding member and vocalist of the American shock-rock and heavy metal band GWAR, has died at the age of 68. He passed away in Brooklyn, New York, following a battle with cancer.

Bandmate and bassist Casey Orr confirmed the news, stating that Varga passed away peacefully with his wife, Bambi, by his side. Orr described Varga as a unique artist, performer, and gentleman, noting that the world is poorer for his loss.

Varga was a central figure in the band during its most prominent years between 1986 and 1996, and he made several subsequent returns to the group. He was well known for his stage persona, ‘Sexecutioner’. Along with Hunter Jackson, Varga helped establish The Slave Pit, the creative production space that served as the foundation for GWAR’s blend of heavy metal, science fiction, and elaborate theatrical performances. The band received two Grammy nominations during its history.