Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill announces his retirement from the band, stepping down after roughly 56 years as the group’s longest-serving member. Multiple outlets report that he is departing due to a worsening condition described as “evil arthritis.”
Billboard and Vice say Hill’s health has been advancing, while Rolling Stone adds that he also cites other personal reasons, including reduced family time, as part of his decision. NME frames the announcement with Hill’s remarks of gratitude for the life the band has given him. Rolling Stone reports he will still appear on Judas Priest’s upcoming album.
Several sources also say the band has identified his replacement: Davey Rimmer, the bassist from Uriah Heep, is set to take over the role following Hill’s retirement. Overall coverage presents the move as both a health-related and long-planned transition for the band’s lineup.
