James Hetfield has returned to rehab, forcing Metallica to cancel its upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand.
“As most of you probably know, our brother James has been struggling with addiction on and off for many years. He has now, unfortunately, had to re-enter a treatment program to work on his recovery again,” read a statement Friday from bandmates Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo.
The leg of the WorldWired tour was scheduled to run between Oct. 17 and Nov. 2. Ticket holders have been promised refunds, even though Metallica vowed to reschedule the shows.
“We fully intend to make our way to your part of the world as soon as health and schedule permit. We’ll let you know as soon as we can,” read the statement. “Once again, we are devastated that we have inconvenienced so many of you, especially our most loyal fans who often travel great distances to experience our shows. We appreciate your understanding and support for James and, as always, thank you for being a part of our Metallica family.”
Slipknot, which was scheduled to tour with Metallica, said in a statement: “Our thoughts are with James and Metallica. We wish them nothing but the best.”
Hetfield, 56, completed rehab in 2001. In 2016, he told the Wall Street Journal: “I have an addictive personality, so when I act impulsively it can go very wrong.”
Former Metallica bassist Ron McGovney was among many who tweeted words of support. “If he needs anything, he has my number. I have been sober for 2 years. It's not easy. I'm with you big guy.”