3 Doors Down Frontman Brad Arnold Passes Away at 47 After Brave Cancer Fight
After a heroic battle with cancer, 3 Doors Down founding lead singer Brad Arnold died at 47. Arnold died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his wife Jennifer and family, the band announced on Instagram.
In May 2025, Arnold reported that he had stage 4 clear cell renal carcinoma that had migrated to his lungs. He died from the illness despite treatment, leaving fans and the music industry mourning.
From Escatawpa, Mississippi, Arnold, Matt Roberts, and Todd Harrell established 3 Doors Down in 1996 while in high school. The band gained international success in 2000 with “Kryptonite,” which reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100. At 15, Arnold wrote “Kryptonite” lyrics in arithmetic class.
3 Doors Down recorded six studio albums, including songs like “Here Without You” and “It’s Not My Time”. The Better Life, their 2000 first album, was the 11th best-selling of the year, confirming the band’s place in rock history. Us and the Night, their 2016 album, is their latest.
A poignant statement by the band praised Arnold’s tremendous contribution to rock music as a founding member and original drummer. His emotionally honest lyrics and post-grunge style pushed rock music to mainstream ears, they said.
Arnold’s death has saddened fans and musicians, who remember him for his musical talent, boldness, and kindness. His music and life influences will go on.
Brad Arnold was a great rock musician whose voice and words touched millions worldwide.
Sources:
- Official Instagram statement by 3 Doors Down
- Billboard Hot 100 archives
- Album sales data (RIAA-certified)
- Public announcements by Brad Arnold
