New Found Glory Guitarist Chad Gilbert Dies At 45

Chad Gilbert, guitarist and founding member of pop-punk band New Found Glory, has died at the age of 45.

The musician died on Sunday, September 20, with his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and mother by his side, according to a statement from the band and his family.

“On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep,” New Found Glory said. The band described the musician as deeply loved by his family, friends and fans, adding that being a husband and father was among his greatest accomplishments.

Gilbert had been open about his health struggles in recent years. In March, he shared updates from hospital following surgery after experiencing difficulty controlling movement in his left hand during a performance in Nashville.

His health problems dated back several years. In 2021, he was diagnosed with pheochromocytoma, a rare tumour affecting the adrenal gland. He later revealed that the cancer had spread to his spine and lungs and continued undergoing treatment.

Gilbert also underwent brain surgery in 2026 after doctors discovered tumours. However, his family has not publicly identified a specific cause of death.

Gilbert co-founded New Found Glory in Florida in 1997, helping the band become one of the defining acts of the pop-punk scene.

The group released its 11th studio album, Listen Up!, in February and had continued touring following its release.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Cimorelli, and their daughter, Lily.