Brad Arnold, the founder and lead singer of American rock band 3 Doors Down, has died at the age of 47 following a “courageous battle with cancer,” per cbsnews.com.
The band confirmed the news on Saturday, stating that Arnold passed away peacefully while surrounded by his wife, Jennifer, and his family.
“His music reverberated far beyond the stage, creating moments of connection, joy and faith that will live on,” the statement read.
Arnold revealed in May 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 clear cell renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer. The diagnosis forced the “Kryptonite” singers to cancel their summer tour, though Arnold maintained at the time that he had “no fear” regarding the journey ahead.
Born in Escatawpa, Mississippi, Arnold formed 3 Doors Down in 1996. The group’s debut album, The Better Life, became a global phenomenon, eventually being certified platinum six times over.
Their breakout hit, “Kryptonite”, earned a Grammy nomination and remains a staple of modern rock radio. Remarkably, Arnold wrote the lyrics for the song while sitting in a secondary school maths class at just 15 years old.
While the band saw massive commercial success, it was also marked by tragedy and personal struggle. Co-founder Matt Roberts died in 2016, and the band saw various line-up changes over the years.
Arnold was open about his own battle with alcoholism, celebrating a decade of sobriety in early 2025. He described his sober years as “the best years” of his life, often attributing his resilience to his faith and the support of his wife.
The band’s tribute concluded by highlighting his character off-stage: “Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility and deep love for his family and friends.”
•Featured image: Brad Arnold of 3 Doors Down performs on Sept. 24, 2016, in Birmingham, Alabama/David A. Smith / Getty Images
