Metal Sludge / August 3rd 2026 — Blackie Lawless has publicly called on the W.A.S.P. community to “support” and “honor” former lead guitarist Chris Holmes following the news of Holmes’ prostate cancer diagnosis.
As of August 2026, W.A.S.P. frontman Blackie Lawless issued an official social media statement effectively pausing a decades-long personal rift to rally around his former bandmate.
The full statement as it appears on W.A.S.P. social media platforms reads as follows: “The entire W.A.S.P. family are devastated with the news that our Brother and originator, Chris Holmes is now in a serious fight. We ask that all of you, who have been moved and touched by the Band stand with us all, to support, as well as to honor him with whatever you can do, be it financial, or words of peace and encouragement. Let him know what he’s meant to you. W.A.S.P. Nation Support You All !! — B. L.”
Lawless expressed devastation regarding the news and urged fans to offer both financial support and words of encouragement, emphasizing that the “W.A.S.P. Nation” stands behind Holmes.
The Diagnosis: The 68-year-old guitarist is undergoing treatment in France for prostate cancer, which is his second cancer diagnosis following a successful battle with throat and neck cancer in 2022.
Financial Support: Due to health insurance issues, a GoFundMe campaign with a €50,000 goal was initiated to assist with mounting medical debts, as Holmes is currently unable to tour.
Significance of Lawless’ Response: Despite a long-standing, public estrangement since 2001, Lawless‘ support is seen as a significant, compassionate gesture to aid his former bandmate.
Our friends over at the Hair Metal Guru have just released a video about Lawless‘ kind output and we have shared it below.
Metal Sludge wishes Chris Holmes a full and speedy recovery.
Support Chris Holmes’ official GoFundMe.
Visit Mark ‘WEISSGUY’ Photo Gallery.
Ready, Set, W.A.S.P.
Stay tuned to Metal Sludge for more Breaking News, Updates and Features along with both New and Classic 20 Questions.
