After long-running speculations that Mick Mars would retire from Motley Crue, a representative for the guitarist has finally confirmed that the musician will no longer perform with the band in the future; is it because of his medical condition?
According to a spokesperson for the guitarist who issued a statement to Variety, Mars would no longer perform in the band's upcoming tours, but they clarified that he's still a member of Motley Crue.
After 41 years of touring and being the group's lead guitarist, the musician has confirmed that "he will no longer be able to tour with the band" due to his ongoing struggle with Ankylosing Spondylitis also known as A.S.
"Mick will continue as a member of the band, but can no longer handle the rigors of the road," the statement reads. (via Classic Rock)
They added that Mars' medical condition is extremely painful and it primarily affects the spine of a person who has the disease.
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Who Would Replace Mick Mars?
As of this writing, there is still no information regarding the guitarist's replacement, but many fans have been speculating that John 5, former guitarist for Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie, will fill his slot.
Rumors began swirling when the musician was nowhere to be found during his band's performance at the Aftershock Festival in California. Many fans were hyped, even more, when he posted a photo of himself together with drummer Tommy Lee.
In addition, his solo shows this year featured Motley Crue covers on his setlist, like his August 24 performance where he played "Home Sweet Home."
LA Guns guitarist Tracii Guns, who is a close friend of bassist Nikki Sixx, seemingly confirmed the news, saying, "if it's time for Mick to tap out then that's his business. John 5 in my opinion is a great choice if the rumor if true." (via Guitar World)
John 5 has since denied the rumors on social media, but he later deleted his comment.
Motley Crue is set to go on tour with Def Leppard across the United Kingdom and Ireland next year. The two legendary bands just wrapped up their tour with Poison and Joan Jett earlier this year and they reportedly sold a whopping 1.3 million tickets.
Their first show would be at Sheffield Bramall Lane in the UK on May 22, 2023.
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