SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (CelebrityAccess) – Jack Russell, the lead singer of the metal band Great White, passed away Thursday (August 15). The news was shared via Russell’s official Instagram account, which included a heartfelt statement: “With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell—father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend.” The cause of death was not disclosed; however, in July, Russell revealed he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy. He was 63.
In July, Russell, who had been with Great White since 1981, revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy (MSA) and would no longer be touring. “I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve,” Russell shared on Instagram on July 17. “Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and autonomic functions.
Great White’s biggest hit was “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” from their 1989 album, while Russell’s solo hit “Rock Me” also climbed the charts.
Russell’s friends and fans responded to the news of Russell’s passing by sharing their memories and expressing their admiration for his talent. “One of the best singers in one of the best bands ever,” one fan wrote. “RIP, you’ll never be forgotten.” Another commented, “You gave me so many good memories. I’m so glad that you finally found your soulmate in Heather. I will never see a pack of Marlboro Light 100s without smiling. As much as my heart hurts, your spirit is no longer trapped in the torment of affliction. My condolences to your family.”
Great White also released a statement following Russell’s death: “Our deepest condolences to the family of Jack Russell. We hope they take comfort in knowing Jack’s incredible voice will live on forever. What do you say about someone who was there by your side on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad? We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks. All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts.”
Arcada Theatre via X: JACK RUSSELL TRIBUTE SHOW ANNOUNCED – In memory of legendary former Great White lead singer Jack Russell, The Arcada Theatre will host a tribute concert on Friday, August 23.
Jack Russell’s Great White was originally scheduled to appear with headliner Vixen, but Jack’s illness caused him to back out of the show just two weeks before. Jack Russell’s Great White Band will still perform the show under its new name, “Once Bitten,” enlisting the powerful vocals of Terry Ilous, former Great White frontman.
President and CEO Ron Onesti said that Jack would have wanted the show to go on and that this tribute is a fitting way to honor his musical legacy. Additionally, the release of Jack Russell’s autobiography, The True Tale of Mista Bone: A Rock + Roll Narrative, was planned to coincide with the concert. K.L. Doty, the author and “Official Jack Russell Family Spokesperson,” will still attend to discuss her book and share stories about Jack.
“This is another sad day in Rock and Roll,” said Arcada President and CEO Ron Onesti. “Jack would have wanted the show to go on, what better way to honor his musical life than with a salute by his own bandmates?
Vixen will close the night with a performance of their greatest hits. “I know this will be an emotional evening for all rockers present, including the girls from Vixen. I am sure they shared many co-bills with Jack and his band. Thanks to Vixen for being a part of this,” said Onesti.
Dee Snider via X: “RIP Jack Russel. This man was vilified for a situation out of his control and tortured by the memories. He was not evil. And man could he sing!”
Jack Russell is survived by his wife, Heather Ann Russell; his son, Matthew Hucko; and many other family members and dear friends.
RIP.
Content Disclaimer and Copyright Notice
Content Disclaimer
The content provided on this website is sourced from various RSS feeds and other publicly available sources. We strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, and we always provide source links to the original content. However, we are not responsible for the content’s accuracy or any changes made to the original sources after the information is aggregated on our site.
Fair Use and Copyright Notice
This website may contain copyrighted material, the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We believe this constitutes a “fair use” of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, the material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond fair use, you must obtain permission from the copyright owner.
