AceShowbiz - Chad Gilbert, the lead guitarist and founding member of New Found Glory, died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 45. His passing marks the end of a courageous fight against cancer that began in 2021.

Gilbert was first diagnosed with liver cancer in 2021, followed by a brain cancer diagnosis six months before his death. He spent the last years of his life publicly sharing his journey, including multiple treatments and surgeries. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by friends, family, his wife Lisa Cimorelli, and his mother, as he wished.

On his personal Instagram, Gilbert had been open about his health struggles, regularly updating fans on his condition and hospital visits. He conveyed strength and gratitude throughout his illness, showing resilience even when facing aggressive Stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma.

New Found Glory was formed in 1997 in Coral Springs, Florida, with Chad Gilbert as a key creative force. The pop punk band is known for their breakthrough album "Sticks and Stones," which went gold in 2002, and for headlining the Warped Tour that same year. They also toured with prominent acts like Blink-182, helping to define the early 2000s pop punk scene. The band's recent album "Listen Up!" was released just months before Gilbert’s passing, underscoring his ongoing impact on their sound and legacy.

Gilbert’s death is a significant loss to the pop punk community and the music world at large. His songwriting, guitar work, and infectious spirit shaped New Found Glory for nearly three decades, inspiring countless fans and fellow musicians. His openness about his illness has also brought attention to rare cancers, highlighting the human side of battling terminal disease in the public eye.