Judas Priest Bassist Ian Hill Retired After 57 Years
The long-time member of the band has stepped down following a battle with advanced arthritis.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Rock
Live Poll
Do you prefer musicians retire when physical limitations impact their live stage performances?
Ian Hill has retired from Judas Priest after serving as the band's bassist since 1970. The veteran musician cited the advanced state of his arthritis as the primary reason for his departure.
Why it matters
Hill's retirement marks the end of an era for the heavy metal legends, as he was the final remaining original member of the group. He plans to dedicate his time to his family following more than five decades on the road.
Ian Hill performed with the band for 57 years, consistently serving as the rhythmic backbone of the group since 1970. His tenure concluded following a career that spanned over half a century of heavy metal history.
The players
Ian Hill
He is the long-serving bassist and last original member of the pioneering heavy metal band Judas Priest.
Judas Priest
This influential British heavy metal band has been a cornerstone of the genre since its formation in the early 1970s.
Davey Rimmer
He is the bassist who stepped into the lineup to replace Hill after learning the band's set list.
The details
Hill struggled with arthritis in his shoulders, hands, and knees, eventually snapping a tendon in his left shoulder during a performance in Brussels. Despite managing the condition with painkillers, gels, and cortisone injections, the physical toll forced him to step away from the stage.
Timeline
Ian Hill joined the band in 1970.
Davey Rimmer filled in during a show in London in September 2026.
Ian Hill officially announced his retirement on October 9, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The departure of a legacy member highlights the ongoing evolution of classic rock and metal bands as founding lineups continue to change. This shift reflects the broader trend of iconic artists retiring from strenuous touring schedules due to the physical demands of long-term performance.
Fans will see a change in the band's touring lineup as Davey Rimmer takes over bass duties full-time. This transition ensures that the group can continue performing their established set list at upcoming scheduled appearances.
The takeaway
Maintaining a lifelong career in high-energy music requires immense physical endurance that can become unsustainable over decades. Musicians facing similar health challenges often find that prioritizing long-term mobility is necessary for life after the stage.
Further reading
For more on legendary metal groups, visit our Rock section.
Live Poll
Do you prefer musicians retire when physical limitations impact their live stage performances?
