New Found Glory Honors Late Frontman Chad Gilbert at Epcot Shows
New Found Glory, an American punk rock band, has announced a series of upcoming shows at Epcot theme park in Walt Disney World, Florida. The performances are a tribute to their late frontman and guitarist Chad Gilbert, who passed away on September 20th after a five-year battle with cancer.
Gilbert was a massive Disney fan and had been planning to perform with the band at Epcot. According to New Found Glory, he had already worked on setlists and was practicing extensively to be ready for the shows. The band has decided to honor his memory by taking the stage at Epcot, where they feel it's 'the right way' to do so.
Gilbert's health issues began in 2021 when he underwent emergency surgery after being diagnosed with a rare tumor called a pheochromocytoma. Despite initial hopes of being cancer-free, the tumor eventually spread to his liver and later to his spine, where it was removed. In recent months, Gilbert underwent emergency brain surgery due to three tumors found in his skull.
New Found Glory has expressed gratitude for the love and support from their fans during this difficult time. The band's announcement has been met with tributes from fans and fellow musicians, including a heartfelt message from Hayley Williams, who was married to Gilbert from 2016 to 2017.