Hayley Williams Mourns Ex‑Husband Chad Gilbert
Paramore’s Hayley Williams publicly honored her ex‑husband, New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert, after his death from cancer. The singer shared memories of their long‑standing relationship, the influence Gilbert had on her career and the hardcore community, and expressed gratitude for the lesson…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On Sunday, the music world lost a key figure in the hardcore scene: Chad Gilbert, founding guitarist of New Found Glory, passed away after a long battle with cancer. The news was shared by the band and Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, in a joint statement that praised his legacy and described his final moments surrounded by loved ones.
Chad Gilbert: A Career Spanning Two Decades
Gilbert co‑founded New Found Glory in 1997, and the band’s debut album, Nothing Gold Can Stay, came out in 1999. Over the next twenty‑five years, he played on every New Found Glory release, from the early punk‑pop hits to the 2026 album Listen Up!. His musicianship also extended to side projects such as Shai Hulud and the International Superheroes of Hardcore, cementing his reputation as a versatile guitarist who helped shape the sound of modern hardcore and pop‑punk.
In 2026, Gilbert’s health had been a growing concern. He had been diagnosed with adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare adrenal cancer, and later discovered to have three brain tumors. Despite ongoing treatment, the disease ultimately proved fatal.
Hayley Williams’ Tribute: From Silence to Gratitude
Paramore’s lead singer, Hayley Williams, had kept her thoughts about Gilbert private for several days after the announcement. She explained on Instagram Stories that she was uncertain about how to respond, given their estranged relationship. Eventually, she chose to speak out, saying that life is shaped by the people we meet and that Gilbert’s influence was profound.
Williams wrote, “Chad is indeed a legend in the scene and my time connected to him taught me a lot. He introduced me to people that continue to shape my life in beautiful ways, and to music and culture that has made life a lot richer.” She added that his “influence and attitude guided the genre forward” and that he had “a passion for fostering the community” that left a lasting impression on her.
In her tribute, Williams also expressed deep gratitude: “I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore.” She sent her condolences to Gilbert’s family, the New Found Glory community, and all of his friends.
Their Relationship: A Decade of Love and Complexity
Williams and Gilbert began dating in 2007 (some reports say 2008) and were together for nearly a decade before marrying in February 2016. The couple announced their separation in July 2017, just over a year after their wedding. Their joint statement at the time reflected on the challenges of marriage, noting that “love is an absolute risk” and that “it’s up to each of us to stay hopeful even when the outcome isn’t what we’d originally hoped for.”
Although their marriage ended, the two remained connected through their shared music community. Williams has spoken about how Gilbert’s influence helped her navigate her own career, especially during the release of her solo debut, Petals for Armor, in 2020. She cited a lyric from the album that referenced her past relationship, indicating that her personal experiences continued to shape her artistry.
Legacy and Community Impact
Gilbert’s death was described as a shock to the hardcore community. The joint statement highlighted the large turnout at the hospital lobby and the outpouring of support from fans and peers alike. The obituary noted that he was “a legendary musician” but also a devoted husband and father, underscoring his multifaceted legacy.
Beyond his musical contributions, Gilbert was known for his mentorship of younger artists and his efforts to foster a supportive environment within the hardcore scene. His passing has prompted many to reflect on the importance of community and the lasting influence that artists can have beyond their recordings.
What Happens Next?
While the band has not yet announced a memorial or tribute concert, the community is expected to organize events in Gilbert’s honor. Fans and fellow musicians have begun sharing memories on social media, keeping his spirit alive. Williams has indicated that she will continue to honor his memory through her music and public statements.
As the world processes the loss of a key figure in hardcore music, the narrative surrounding Gilbert’s life and career serves as a reminder of the profound impact artists can have on their peers and the broader cultural landscape.
Key facts
- Chad Gilbert, guitarist of New Found Glory, died after a long cancer battle.
- Hayley Williams publicly honored him, reflecting on their decade‑long relationship.
- Gilbert’s influence extended beyond music to community building in hardcore.
- Williams’ tribute emphasized gratitude and the lasting impact of Gilbert’s mentorship.
- The community is rallying to celebrate his legacy and support his family.
Why it matters
Chad Gilbert’s death marks the loss of a foundational figure in hardcore and pop‑punk, and Hayley Williams’ tribute highlights the personal and professional ties that bind the music community together.
Frequently asked questions
What caused Chad Gilbert’s death?
He had been battling cancer, including adrenocortical carcinoma and three brain tumors, before passing away peacefully in his sleep.
When did Hayley Williams and Chad Gilbert get married?
They married in February 2016 but divorced in July 2017.
What was Chad Gilbert’s role in New Found Glory?
He was the founding guitarist and contributed to every album from 1999’s debut to the 2026 release "Listen Up!".
Sources
- [1] rollingstone.com
- [2] variety.com
