New Found Glory founder and guitarist Chad Gilbert dead at 45, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/chad-gilbert-new-found-glory-founder-guitarist-dies-rcna598857)

Chad Gilbert, the co-founder, lead guitarist, and principal songwriter of the influential pop-punk band New Found Glory, passed away on the morning of September 20, 2026, at the age of 45.

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His death was announced in a joint statement by his wife, musician Lisa Cimorelli, and his New Found Glory bandmates. According to the statement, Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family and close friends, with his wife and mother, Jackie, by his side.

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Gilbert had been publicly battling cancer since late 2021, when he was first treated for a rare adrenal tumor initially diagnosed as pheochromocytoma. The cancer subsequently spread to his spine, lungs, and brain over several years, requiring multiple surgeries, radiation, and immunotherapy. Earlier in 2026, his condition had been updated to stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). In February 2026, he underwent emergency brain surgery to remove multiple tumors, yet remarkably returned to perform on stage with the band just a few months later.

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Gilbert co-founded New Found Glory in Coral Springs, Florida, in 1997. Over nearly three decades, his distinctive riffs, high-energy stage presence, and songwriting helped define the modern pop-punk sound, driving iconic hits such as “My Friends Over You,” “All Downhill From Here,” and “Head on Collision”. He was also known in the hardcore scene as the original vocalist for the band Shai Hulud.

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In their tribute, the band honored Gilbert’s enduring impact, stating that his songwriting, humor, and drive shaped the group across dozens of albums and global tours, noting that his spirit will continue to live on through every stage they play.

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Chad Gilbert is survived by his wife Lisa, their young daughter Lily, his mother Jackie, and his brother Brian.

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