Brad Arnold, the lead singer, founding member and songwriter of Grammy-nominated rock band 3 Doors Down, has died at the age of 47 following a battle with Stage 4 kidney cancer, his band confirmed on Saturday.
Arnold passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 7, 2026, surrounded by his wife, Jennifer, and other family members after courageously fighting clear cell renal carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer that had spread to his lungs. His death was announced in a statement on the band’s official social media accounts that paid tribute to his life, music and enduring impact on fans worldwide.
Born in Escatawpa, Mississippi, Arnold co-founded 3 Doors Down in 1995 alongside guitarist Matt Roberts and bassist Todd Harrell. The band quickly rose to international fame with its 2000 breakthrough hit “Kryptonite,” which Arnold wrote as a teenager and which helped the group earn multiple Grammy nominations. Over their career, the band released six studio albums and charted numerous hits including “When I’m Gone” and “Here Without You.”
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In May 2025, Arnold publicly revealed his diagnosis in a video on social media, explaining that the cancer had progressed to Stage 4 and that it forced 3 Doors Down to cancel its summer tour. In the message, he spoke candidly about his condition and his faith, telling fans he was “not scared” despite the grim prognosis.
Arnold’s contributions to rock music were widely celebrated by fans and the music community following news of his death, with many highlighting his songwriting, distinctive voice and the emotional resonance of 3 Doors Down’s catalogue. His work helped define early-2000s rock and connected deeply with audiences around the world.
He is survived by his wife, Jennifer, and leaves behind a rich musical legacy celebrated by fans, peers and fellow musicians alike. Tributes from across the industry underscored his influence, kindness and the enduring power of songs that remain staples of mainstream rock.
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