The highly anticipated debut Australian tour of the legendary Pentagram, pioneers of doom metal, has been officially cancelled due to “current allegations,” as announced by the promoters. This cancellation has left many fans disappointed, as they were eager to experience the band’s iconic sound live on stage.

Active since 1971, Pentagram has a rich history in the heavy metal genre. The band initially revealed plans for an extensive tour across both Australia and New Zealand in early April, featuring six exciting dates in Australia during August, as well as three additional performances in New Zealand. Fans were looking forward to this rare opportunity to see the band perform their classic tracks and newer material live.

However, a recent statement issued by Hardline Media on Friday, July 18, confirmed that the much-anticipated tour will not proceed as originally planned. This announcement has raised questions among fans and the media, who were keen to understand the implications of the allegations surrounding the band.

“In light of the serious allegations associated with the Pentagram tour in Australia and New Zealand, Hardline Media has made the decision to place this tour on hold,” a statement provided to the media read. “It is important to note that no VISAs have been issued for this tour, contrary to reports from other media outlets. Furthermore, no venues or any staff involved are implicated in these allegations.”

“With deep respect, we thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this complex situation,” the statement concluded, assuring that further details would be shared shortly. However, no specifics were disclosed regarding the nature of the “current allegations” that have emerged, leaving fans and industry observers eager for clarity.

Pentagram was co-founded by vocalist Bobby Liebling, who has remained the only original member throughout the band’s evolution, contributing his unique voice to all nine of their studio albums. In early 2025, Liebling and Pentagram gained renewed popularity after a video showcasing the vocalist’s dynamic live performance went viral on TikTok, introducing new audiences to their influential sound.

In October 2017, Liebling faced serious legal troubles when he was arrested and charged with first-degree assault and physical abuse against a vulnerable adult, identified as his then 87-year-old mother. He ultimately pleaded guilty to charges of abuse and neglect, while claiming innocence regarding the assault charge. Following this, he was sentenced to 18 months in detention and three years of probation, which has influenced public perception of the band.

Earlier that same year, Pentagram had announced plans for a tour without Liebling on vocals, citing “circumstances beyond anyone’s control, directly linked to Bobby Liebling’s personal actions.” This decision underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the band amid legal and personal controversies.

Leading up to the tour’s cancellation, the RED HEART Campaign – an organization dedicated to honoring “women and children lost to violence” – initiated efforts to raise awareness about Liebling’s previous convictions, aiming to prevent him from entering Australia. This campaign has added another layer of complexity to the situation surrounding the band and their postponed tour.