Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson believes his exclusion from the band’s farewell tour is unfair and based on false reasons. In a recent interview, he expressed his willingness to participate, stating, “I have always said that I am available for that. I think any reason that I’m not there now is unfounded and untruthful. Clearly, there’s nothing wrong.”
Ellefson was fired by Dave Mustaine in May 2021 after explicit messages and videos involving him were leaked online. Since then, the two have not spoken for over four years. Mustaine recently mentioned that he cannot invite certain former members back due to their past behavior. He said, “I can’t really do that because it would be unfair to the other band members if I didn’t play with them as well.”
Ellefson was part of Megadeth from its formation in 1983 until 2002, when Mustaine had to step back due to nerve damage. He returned in 2010 after a royalty lawsuit was settled, making his total time with the band over 30 years across two periods.
Ellefson pointed to Black Sabbath’s recent farewell event in Birmingham as a better way to say goodbye. That show featured the original four members coming together for fans. He said, “If it were just me and Dave sitting here, I’m sure everything would be fine. But there are a lot of influences, and that can be sticky. My hope is that the voice of the fans gets louder than any other voice that would tear it apart.”
Megadeth announced their farewell tour for 2025, along with a new album that will be their last release.
