Metallica, Jason Newsted is cured of cancer

The former bassist of Metallica, Jason Newstedrevealed that he recently battled throat cancer, fortunately detected at an early stage, and that he is now free of the disease.

Newsted revealed the news in an interview on comedian and musician Dean Delray’s “Let There Be Talk” podcast. The bassist explained why he couldn’t make it to Delray’s Bon Scott and AC/DC tribute show in February:

“If I could have been there, I would have been there. And so I’m going to talk about it a little bit. I decided that this week, as I start rolling out promotion for the shows and things like that, I’m going to let everyone know that I’m coming back, and you already know, you’re probably one of the 24 people I’ve told.

The musician explained the diagnosis dates back to 2025 and who underwent laser surgery to remove the tumor. After treatment, he received the news that he was “fully recovered” just a few weeks ago.

Newsted said the operation resulted in significant physical changes, but that early diagnosis was crucial to the success of the treatment. He also highlighted how the experience had a strong impact about his personal life.

In fact, the musician decided to change lifestyle: stopped consuming alcohol and marijuana, instead favoring healthier habits and paying more attention to rest and mental well-being. Looking to the future, Newsted said he is optimistic and ready to return to live music. He is in fact preparing a North American tour with his project Jason Newsted & the Chophouse Band, scheduled for the summer.