Chad Gilbert, founding guitarist and longtime songwriter for New Found Glory, has died at age 45 after years of cancer treatment.
His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his bandmates confirmed his death in a joint statement released September 20. They said Gilbert died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by friends and family, with his wife and mother by his side.
Gilbert had publicly discussed his cancer diagnosis since 2021. Earlier in 2026, he underwent emergency surgery after doctors discovered tumors in his brain. Despite ongoing treatment, he continued to remain connected to music and returned to the stage with New Found Glory in June.
A founding member of the Florida pop-punk band, Gilbert helped shape New Found Glory’s sound through his guitar work and songwriting for nearly three decades. The group formed in 1997 and became a major presence in the pop-punk scene with songs including My Friends Over You.
His family and bandmates also emphasized how important fatherhood and family were to him. Gilbert is survived by his wife Lisa, daughter Lily, mother Jackie, and brother Brian.