3 Doors Down singer Brad Arnold dies aged 47 after cancer battle

Brad Arnold, the founder, lead singer, and songwriter of rock band 3 Doors Down, has died aged 47 after a battle with cancer.

His death was announced in a tribute post on the band's official social media pages, which shared that the rocker had died on February 7.

"With his beloved wife Jennifer and his family by his side, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer," the band said in a statement.

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"As a founding member, vocalist, and original drummer of 3 Doors Down, Brad helped redefine mainstream rock music, blending post-grunge accessibility with emotionally direct songwriting and lyrical themes that resonated with everyday listeners.

"Brad's songwriting became a cultural touchstone for a generation, producing some of the most enduring hits of the 2000s, including the band's breakout hit, Kryptonite, which he wrote in his math class when he was just 15 years old.

"His music reverberated far beyond the stage, creating moments of connection, joy, faith, and shared experiences that will live on long after the stages he performed on."

The rocker is survived by his wife Jennifer Sanderford, to whom he was a "devoted husband". 

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"His kindness, humour, and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility, faith, and deep love for his family and friends," the tribute shared.

In May 2025, Arnold had revealed he was diagnosed with clear cell renal carcinoma, a stage four kidney cancer.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, it is the most common form of kidney cancer and occurs at roughly twice the rate in men compared to women.

Though it can develop without a clear cause, factors like smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and kidney disease can increase the risk.

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Arnold revealed his diagnosis in a video posted to social media in May 2025

"Got some not so good news for you today," Arnold shared with his fans, "So, I'd been sick a couple of weeks ago and then went to the hospital and got checked out, and actually got the diagnosis that I had a clear cell renal cell carcinoma that had metastasised into my lung. And it's stage four, and that's not real good."

The sudden diagnosis led to 3 Doors Down cancelling their tour.

"But you know what? We serve a mighty God, and he can overcome anything. So I have no fear. I really sincerely am not scared of it at all. But it is gonna force us to cancel our tour this summer. And we're sorry for that. And I'd love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get. And Ithink it is time for me to go listen to It's Not My Time a little bit, right?"

Arnold helped form the band in 1996 in Escatawpa, Mississippi. Its current lineup includes Chet Roberts, Justin Biltonen, Chris Henderson and Greg Upchurch.

Arnold was the only remainding founding member of the band.

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