Hayley Williams is remembering her ex-husband Chad Gilbert following the New Found Glory guitarist’s death at 45.
In an Instagram Stories post on Wednesday, Sept. 23, the Paramore frontwoman reflected on what she learned from Gilbert and his lasting influence on the music community.
“Have not known what to say or if it’s appropriate,” Williams, 37, began. “But I feel sure now that I want to bc life is made of the paths we cross and the reasons we cross them are infinite.”
“Chad is indeed a legend in the scene and my time connected to him taught me a lot,” she continued. “He introduced me to people that continue to shape my life in beautiful ways, and to music and culture that has made life a lot richer.”
Williams also praised Gilbert’s contributions to hardcore, writing, “His influence and attitude guided the genre forward.”
“I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore.”
She ended her message by “sending love and my sympathies” to Gilbert’s family, New Found Glory and his friends.
Williams and Gilbert began dating in 2008, married in 2016 and split in 2017.
Gilbert died on September 20 following years of cancer treatment. His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and bandmates confirmed he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
2026-09-24 23:09:00
