Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted has opened up about his battle with throat cancer, revealing that he has successfully overcome the illness. In a recent episode of the Let There Be Talk podcast, the 63-year-old musician shared that he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent surgery to remove it in May 2025. “We got it early,” Newsted said, adding that he received the all-clear just three weeks ago.
“I beat it,” he declared. Newsted also mentioned that he promised himself to take some time to rest, something he had never done before.
Looking ahead, Newsted is set to hit the road again in July for his first North American headlining tour with his Chophouse Band. He was a part of Metallica from 1986 to 2001, contributing to iconic albums like …And Justice for All, The Black Album, Load, and Reload. He was succeeded by the band’s current bassist, Robert Trujillo.
