Dee Snider Clarifies Health Rumors After Twisted Sister Cancels 50th Anniversary Tour

Dee Snider sets the record straight: he’s not on his death bed despite Twisted Sister’s canceled 50th anniversary tour.

Not Down Yet: Dee Snider’s Health Update

If you’ve been worried about Twisted Sister’s legendary frontman Dee Snider, breathe easy. At 70, Snider recently had to step away from the band’s much-anticipated 50th anniversary tour due to health challenges, but he’s far from the dramatic “death bed” rumors swirling around. In his own words during an episode of his House of Hair radio show, Dee reassured fans:

“I’m not dying! No, not never; I mean, we’re all dying, but not immediately. My announcement about cancelling the tour for health reasons, problems with my heart, arthritis, things like that… the rumours have run wild that I’m on my death bed, I am not. I just can’t do those things that I did in my 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and even 60s. Alright? Otherwise I’m alive and well. I’m enjoying life.”

It’s a heartfelt message from a rock icon who's always given his all on stage but is now embracing a new chapter with grace.

Why the Cancelation? The Real Story Behind Snider’s Health

The cancellation came as a shock to many fans. Twisted Sister, known for their explosive glam-rock style and rebellious anthems, had teased a massive world tour to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Unfortunately, Dee’s health struggles—most notably degenerative arthritis and heart issues—forced him to make the tough call to leave the line-up immediately. The band’s official website shared:

“Dee Snider has been facing a series of challenges including degenerative arthritis, which has resulted in multiple procedures over the years.”

Snider himself acknowledged that the physical demands of touring and performing their high-energy shows are no longer sustainable for him. "You won’t see me on the stage kicking ass like I used to, because that will mess me up," he explained.

A New Phase: What’s Next for Dee Snider?

Though he’s stepping back from live tours, Dee isn’t hanging up his mic completely. He’s planning to keep his creative juices flowing by continuing his popular House of Hair radio show, writing, and directing projects. His spirit remains unbroken, even if the stage antics have to be toned down.

Snider’s outlook is remarkably positive:

“I’m still rockin’ here, I ain’t stopping. I got a lot of life to live. My dad is 95 and still kicking, so I’m expecting to be around for a long time.”

For fans, it’s a bittersweet moment. While they won’t get to see the frontman thrash about on stage like in the glory days, they can cherish the memories of his electrifying performances and look forward to whatever creative ventures he embraces next.

Twisted Sister’s Comeback Tour: A Brief History

Twisted Sister originally retired from touring back in 2016, leaving a legacy of heavy metal anthems that are still blasting through speakers worldwide. However, last year, they surprised the music world by announcing a world tour to mark their 50th anniversary.

The excitement was palpable when the band hinted at the reunion on social media, with Dee himself teasing the milestone.

Included in their tour plans was a headline slot at the Steelhouse Festival in Aberbeeg, Ebbw Vale, set for July 24-26, 2026. This would have been their first UK performance since 2016’s Bloodstock Festival. Fans were buzzing, already gearing up to relive the glory days of classic tracks and legendary stage presence.

Reflecting on a Rock Legend’s Journey

Dee Snider’s story is one familiar to many fans of rock and roll legends. The highs of stadium-filling shows and the lows of battling health setbacks paint a picture of endurance and passion. As the frontman so eloquently put it, he doesn’t want fans to see him as diminished but rather to hold on to the unforgettable memories of his peak performances.

He even referenced fellow rock icon Willie Nelson, who still performs in his 90s but with the comfort of a wheelchair. Dee’s message is clear—he’s stepping away on his own terms, proud of the legacy he’s built:

“The truth of the matter is, I don’t want you to see me up there being less than you expect me to be. You got memories of the great shows that I did, that’s what I want to leave you with.”

There’s a certain poetry in knowing a rock legend knows when to bow out gracefully.

Fans Rally Around Dee

The outpouring of support after the tour cancellation was overwhelming. Dee thanked fans for their concern and encouragement:

“Thank you for all the love and care and worry and all that stuff. It was crazy the amount of people, the outpouring was beautiful, thank you very much for cheering me on. I’m OK, I just can’t do that anymore.”

This sense of community highlights how much Twisted Sister and Dee Snider’s music have meant—not just for those who cranked their albums loud in their bedrooms but for an entire generation of rock enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts: Life After the Stage

While it’s tough not to see Dee Snider tearing up stages again, his health and happiness come first. He’s transitioning to a different rhythm but still rocking in his own way—from the airwaves to behind-the-scenes creativity.

To longtime fans and new listeners alike, this chapter offers a chance to celebrate the enduring spirit of Twisted Sister and its iconic frontman, who reminds us all that rock isn’t just about youth or wild concerts—it’s about passion, resilience, and making every moment count.

FAQ

• What health issues led to Dee Snider canceling the tour?
  Dee has been dealing with degenerative arthritis and heart problems, which have made the physical demands of touring too challenging.
• Will Dee Snider continue performing live in the future?
  At this time, Dee has stated he won’t be hitting the road again but will continue to host his radio show and work on other creative projects.
• When did Twisted Sister originally retire from touring?
  The band retired from touring in 2016 before announcing a 50th anniversary comeback tour in 2025.
• What was planned for the 50th anniversary tour?
  The tour included a headline performance at the Steelhouse Festival in the UK, marking their first UK show since 2016.
• How has the fan community responded to Dee’s health announcement?
  Fans have shown overwhelming support, sending messages of encouragement and appreciation for Dee’s honesty.

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