# Ian Hill retirement from Judas Priest

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ian-hill-retirement-from-judas-priest
> Updated: 2026-10-13T18:19:11.000Z. Sources: 46. Developments: 4.

Judas Priest bassist and co-founder Ian Hill has announced his retirement from the band after 57 years. Hill, 74, cited advanced arthritis affecting his left shoulder, right hand, and both knees as primary reasons for his departure. He also noted a recently snapped tendon in his left shoulder sustained during a performance in Brussels, which prevented him from reaching the neck of his bass during a subsequent show in London. He noted that the rigorous schedule of playing six shows in eight days left no time for recovery, aggravating his existing condition.

In a personal statement, Hill expressed that he had intended to continue performing ‘until my performances suffer,’ but concluded that the time had come. He also noted a desire to spend more time with his family following decades of touring. While retiring from live performances, Hill confirmed he was able to record bass lines for the band’s upcoming album.

In a subsequent interview with Metal Pilgrim, Hill disclosed that his physical condition had been worsening over several tours, specifically impacting his shoulder and thumb. He also revealed that a potential joint tour with Iron Maiden almost occurred this year; Iron Maiden had initially invited Judas Priest for a four-week North American trek, but the offer was ultimately withdrawn.

Davey Rimmer of Uriah Heep and Elegant Weapons has been named as Hill’s permanent successor. Rimmer had previously served as a temporary substitute during the recent European tour when Hill was unable to perform. Judas Priest released a statement describing Hill as the ‘backbone’ of the band and expressing their gratitude for his decades of contribution.

## Claims

- Ian Hill is retiring from Judas Priest after 57 years with the band. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Hill's retirement is due to advanced arthritis in his left shoulder, right hand, right shoulder, and both knees. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Hill recently snapped a tendon in his left shoulder during a show in Brussels. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Davey Rimmer of Uriah Heep will replace Ian Hill as the band's bassist. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Hill is the only member to have performed on all 19 of the band's studio albums. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-13: Ian Hill retires from Judas Priest due to health issues

Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill has retired after 57 years with the band, citing severe arthritis and a torn shoulder tendon sustained during recent performances.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ian-hill-reveals-reasons-for-judas-priest-retirement

### 2026-10-11: Ian Hill retires from Judas Priest after 57 years

Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill is retiring after 57 years due to advanced arthritis and a shoulder injury. Davey Rimmer will join the band as his permanent replacement.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ian-hill-retires-from-judas-priest-after-57-years

### 2026-10-09: Ian Hill announces retirement from Judas Priest

Judas Priest founding bassist Ian Hill is retiring after 57 years due to advanced arthritis and a shoulder injury. Davey Rimmer will replace him in the band.

32 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ian-hill-announces-retirement-from-judas-priest

### 2026-09-21: Ian Hill to miss Judas Priest London concert due to injury

Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill will miss the band's London concert on September 21 due to a damaged tendon in his left arm. Davey Rimmer will fill in for the performance.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ian-hill-to-miss-judas-priest-london-concert-due-to-injury

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Cite as: Ian Hill retirement from Judas Priest. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ian-hill-retirement-from-judas-priest