More than a year after an on-stage fight ended its tour, iconic rock band Jane’s Addiction announced it is officially breaking up. In a statement issued on social media Wednesday the band said the members will now focus on their individual musical and creative passions.
The decision comes following an incident during a concert on Sept. 13, 2024 in Boston. During the performance of the song “Ocean Size,” singer Perry Farrell punched guitarist Dave Navarro. Following the punch, bassist Eric Avery tackled Farrell, dragging him off stage and ending the show.
The band released a statement a few days after the incident, but has remained largely silent. The band cancelled the remaining 14 shows on the tour and has not performed together since. For now it appears the Boston show will mark the final performance of the band.
“After that show, without notice to Perry, we unilaterally determined it would be best to not continue the tour and made inaccurate statements about Perry’s mental health which we regret,” the social media post said. “Today we are here to announce that we have come together one last time to resolve our differences, so that the legacy of Jane’s Addiction will remain the work the four of us created together. We now look forward to the future as we embark on our separate musical and creative endeavors. Jane’s Addiction will forever live in our hearts. We are proud of the music we created together.”
In a separate statement also issued on Wednesday, Farrell apologized for his actions leading to the fight.
“To everyone in Boston and around the world. I’d like to address what happened on stage last year. I’ve reflected on it and know I didn’t handle myself the way I should have. I apologize to our patrons and my bandmates for losing my temper and for disrupting the show,” Farrell wrote. “Jane’s Addiction has been at the center of my life for decades… The band, the songs, the patrons and the impact that we’ve had on music and culture mean more to me than any words I could ever possibly write down. My aim has always been to give our audience the best possible show, something real, honest and positive. In Boston, we fell short of that, and I’m truly sorry to everyone who was impacted. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued love and support.”
In the aftermath of the fight, Navarro, Avery and drummer Stephen Perkins filed a lawsuit against Farrell claiming among other issues, assault, battery, and breach of contract. Farrell countersued his bandmates claiming he is the victim of bullying and harassment.
It is unclear if the lawsuits will proceed now that the group has officially come to an end.