Chad Gilbert, the founding guitarist of pop-punk band New Found Glory, has died at the age of 45. His death was announced Sunday, September 20, by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his bandmates in a joint statement.
According to the announcement, Gilbert died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family and friends, with his wife and mother by his side.
Gilbert was one of the central figures behind New Found Glory, a band that became an important part of the pop-punk movement that grew to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Chad Gilbert Helped Build New Found Glory
Gilbert co-founded New Found Glory in Florida in 1997 and remained closely associated with the group throughout its career.
Alongside lead vocalist Jordan Pundik and other longtime members, Gilbert helped shape the band’s energetic guitar-driven sound. New Found Glory went on to release numerous albums and become a familiar name within the pop-punk and alternative music scenes.
His work extended beyond performing. Gilbert also contributed to songwriting and other musical projects during his career, establishing himself as a prominent figure within the genre.
A Long and Public Health Battle
Gilbert had been dealing with cancer for several years. His illness became publicly known after doctors diagnosed him with pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor involving the adrenal gland.
His condition later became more complicated, requiring multiple treatments and surgeries. In 2026, Gilbert shared updates about additional tumors and underwent brain surgery after experiencing weakness affecting his left side.
Despite his health challenges, Gilbert continued to remain connected to music.
In June, he returned to the stage in Nashville in a wheelchair. He described the performance as particularly meaningful because his daughter, Lily, was present to watch him perform.
Bandmates and Fans Pay Tribute
News of Gilbert’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from musicians, fans and artists who had been influenced by New Found Glory.
Pundik, the band’s longtime vocalist, shared an emotional tribute to his bandmate, remembering Gilbert’s influence and the way he handled his difficult health journey.
Other musicians and bands from the alternative and pop-punk communities also expressed their condolences following the announcement.
Gilbert’s influence reached beyond New Found Glory. He was also involved with the hardcore music scene and performed with Shai Hulud. He additionally worked with the New Found Glory side project International Superheroes of Hardcore.
His Legacy in Pop-Punk
New Found Glory emerged during a period when pop-punk was becoming increasingly prominent in mainstream music.
The band’s combination of melodic hooks, fast guitar work and energetic performances helped establish its place in the genre. Gilbert’s guitar playing and songwriting were an important part of that sound.
For fans who discovered pop-punk during the late 1990s and early 2000s, New Found Glory became closely associated with the era’s music culture.
Gilbert’s nearly three decades with the group gave him a lasting connection to generations of listeners and musicians.
Remembered as a Musician and Family Man
While Gilbert’s professional accomplishments were significant, his family emphasized another side of his life following his death.
The statement announcing his passing described being a husband and father as his greatest accomplishment. Gilbert is survived by his wife, Lisa, their daughter Lily, his mother Jackie and his brother Brian.
His final years were marked by both serious health challenges and a continued commitment to music and family.
Fans Remember Chad Gilbert
Gilbert’s death marks the loss of one of the musicians who helped define an influential period in pop-punk.
From founding New Found Glory in 1997 to continuing to perform decades later, his career spanned a significant chapter in alternative music. His guitar work, songwriting and contributions to the band’s sound helped New Found Glory maintain a dedicated following over the years.
As tributes continue to emerge, fans and fellow musicians are remembering Gilbert not only for his work with New Found Glory but also for his contributions to the wider punk and hardcore communities.
Chad Gilbert was 45.
Source: wusa9