’80s Rocker Sends Clear Message on Canceling 50th Anniversary Tour
- - ’80s Rocker Sends Clear Message on Canceling 50th Anniversary Tour
Olivia KlimekFebruary 15, 2026 at 10:51 PM
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In early February, Dee Snider, frontman of iconic '80s heavy metal band Twisted Sister, announced his departure from the band due to health concerns. This sudden retirement startled fans, leaving the remaining members of Twisted Sister with no choice other than to cancel the group's upcoming 50th anniversary tour. Although news of his worsening health left fans worried, Snider reassured them.
On a recent episode of House of Hair, a radio show hosted by Snider, the 70-year-old frontman made an additional statement regarding his health. He explained that while he is taking it easy, he is by no means dying.
"The rumors have run wild that I am on my deathbed," Snider said. "I am not. I just can't do those things that I did in my 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and even 60s. All right? Otherwise I'm alive and well. I'm enjoying life."
From left, Twisted Sister's Mark Mendoza, Eddie Ojeda, Dee Snider, A.J. Pero and Jay Jay French pose for studio group portrait.Fin Costello/Redferns (Fin Costello/Redferns)
Snider's decision to step away from the band was brought on by a series of health concerns, including struggles with degenerative arthritis in his shoulders, high blood pressure and a recent hip replacement surgery. While he loves to be on stage, Snider knew he would not be able to keep up with his past performances. He went on to thank fans for their support during this change. "You won't see me on the stage kicking ass like I used to because that will mess me up," Snider explained, going on to share his gratitude. "Thank you very much for cheering me on. I'm OK. I just can't do that anymore. And you know what? The truth of the matter is: I don't want you to see me up there being less than you expect me to be. You got memories of a great show that I did? That's what I want to leave you with."
While the upcoming anniversary tour has been canceled, the remaining classic-era members, guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda, are working to find solutions for the future of Twisted Sister.
Related: '80s Rocker Issues Statement on Canceling 50th Anniversary Tour: ‘We Had No Other Choice’
This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
