Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory guitarist, dies at 45

Chad Gilbert, co-founder and guitarist of the pop-punk band New Found Glory, has died at age 45. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 20, surrounded by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his mother.

Gilbert had been battling cancer for several years, including a diagnosis of rare adrenal cancer and a recent emergency surgery for a brain tumor in early 2026. His death was announced by his family and bandmates, who noted he was a ‘legendary musician’ and a devoted husband and father.

Following his passing, Paramore vocalist Hayley Williams, Gilbert’s ex-wife, issued a tribute on Instagram. She described him as a ‘legend in the scene’ and expressed gratitude for the musical culture and community he introduced her to during their relationship, which lasted from 2008 until their divorce in 2017.

New Found Glory has announced plans to honor Gilbert by proceeding with six scheduled performances at Disney’s EPCOT in Orlando, Florida, as part of the Eat to the Beat concert series. The band noted that Gilbert was a massive Disney fan and had been actively planning these shows. However, the group has canceled its appearance at the Aftershock Festival to allow members time to grieve.