# Dave Mustaine memoir release and Megadeth future

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dave-mustaine-memoir-release-and-megadeth-future
> Updated: 2026-09-12T12:50:49.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine has released a memoir titled ‘In My Darkest Hour’, co-written with Joe Layden. The book, which chronicles Mustaine’s 2019 diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma and his subsequent treatment, was supported by a multi-city book tour in the United States in early September 2026.

Following the release, Mustaine used the memoir to provide context regarding Megadeth’s history and internal dynamics. He addressed the departure of former bassist David Ellefson, suggesting that while a 2021 scandal acted as an accelerant, the relationship between the two had been fractured for a long time. Mustaine also clarified his role in the band, asserting his continued creative control.

Looking toward the future, Mustaine indicated that he is preparing for a Megadeth farewell tour, noting that his past health struggles prompted him to reflect on his legacy and the desire to retire with dignity.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-12: Dave Mustaine discusses Megadeth history and farewell tour

Dave Mustaine reveals that the 2021 scandal involving David Ellefson merely accelerated an inevitable split in Megadeth, as the band leader also prepares for a farewell tour.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dave-mustaine-discusses-megadeth-history-and-farewell-tour

### 2026-09-03: Dave Mustaine announces U.S. book tour for new memoir

Megadeth leader Dave Mustaine has announced a three-city U.S. book tour for his September 2026 memoir, ‘In My Darkest Hour’, which details his battle with tongue cancer.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dave-mustaine-announces-us-book-tour-for-new-memoir

---
Cite as: Dave Mustaine memoir release and Megadeth future. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dave-mustaine-memoir-release-and-megadeth-future