Twisted Sister Cancels 50th Anniversary Reunion Tour Over Dee Snider's Health Concerns

Heavy metal legends Twisted Sister have officially canceled all scheduled performances for their 2026 reunion run, citing serious health challenges faced by frontman Dee Snider.

The announcement marks a sudden end to the band's highly anticipated 50th-anniversary celebration, which was set to kick off on April 25, 2026, in São Paulo, Brazil.
Dual Statements Confirm Cancellation

The band broke the news through two separate statements. The first, issued by guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda via French Management Enterprises, cited the "sudden and unexpected resignation" of Snider due to health issues.

A more personal follow-up from Snider (70) revealed the physical toll of decades of high-intensity performance. The statement disclosed that Snider has been privately battling degenerative arthritis and has undergone multiple surgeries in recent years just to remain mobile. More alarmingly, recent medical evaluations revealed that the "intensity he has dedicated to his life's work has taken its toll on his heart as well."
"I'd Rather Walk Away"

Known for his "shredded" physique and explosive stage presence, Snider made it clear that he refuses to perform at anything less than 100%.

"I don’t know of any other way to rock," Snider stated. "The idea of slowing down is unacceptable to me. I’d rather walk away than be a shadow of my former self."
The Lost Reunion

The 2026 run was intended to be a "victory lap" rather than a full-scale tour, consisting of roughly 20 to 25 major festival dates and select headlining shows. The lineup was to feature:

Dee Snider (Vocals)

Jay Jay French (Guitar)

Eddie Ojeda (Guitar)

Russell Pzütto (Bass, replacing Mark Mendoza)

Joe Franco (Drums, replacing the late A.J. Pero)

What’s Next?

While the 2026 dates—including appearances at high-profile festivals like Sweden Rock, Wacken, and Graspop—have been scrapped, the band has not officially disbanded for good. The joint statement from French and Ojeda noted that "the future of Twisted Sister will be determined in the next several weeks."

For now, the "S.M.F." fanbase is left wishing Snider a full recovery as the metal world reacts to the loss of one of 2026's most anticipated reunions.