Brad Arnold, the frontman of 3 Doors Down and the voice behind early-2000s staples like ‘Kryptonite’ and ‘Here Without You’, has revealed he’s been diagnosed with stage four cancer.
In a video posted to social media this week the singer shared the unfortunate news. He opened with: “I’ve got some not-so-good news for you today.” Arnold then went on to explain how he has been unwell for a few weeks before getting the diagnosis of clear cell renal carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer that’s spread to his lungs.
“That’s not real good,” he admitted. “But you know what? We serve a mighty God, and he can overcome anything. So I have no fear. I really, sincerely am not scared of it at all.”
The band’s upcoming North American tour which was set to start in Florida on May 16 has now obviously been cancelled, with Arnold apologising to fans.
Clear cell renal carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer, and the survival rate at stage four is brutally low, around 10 per cent. But Arnold doesn’t seem all that interested in the stats. He sounds more focused, more grounded, and more ready than most would be facing that kind of diagnosis.
Since the announcement, support has poured in from across the rock world. Creed’s Scott Stapp called him “a brother” and praised his strength. Chris Daughtry, Shinedown, Rob Halford and others have also sent their messages of love and solidarity.
Arnold’s been the anchor of 3 Doors Down since 1996 — through massive highs, personal losses (including the death of original guitarist Matt Roberts), and a whole lot of radio domination. Now, he’s facing something far bigger than a comeback tour.
But here there’s no theatrics or drama. Arnold is just a guy staring down something terrifying and saying he’s not afraid. I think that’s more rock’n’roll than most.
MORE IN Music
