The renowned Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen has shared an encouraging health update regarding his fellow band member, guitarist Vivian Campbell. This is particularly significant considering Campbell’s ongoing battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a condition he was diagnosed with in 2013. Recently, Campbell has been recuperating following a bone marrow transplant, which has kept him away from the band. In a recent conversation with SiriusXM‘s Eddie Trunk, Allen relayed some uplifting news about Campbell’s health and spirits.
“He’s doing really good,” Allen expressed enthusiastically. “And the latest news is he’s feeling great.” This statement reflects both the hope and the unwavering support that the band has for Campbell during this challenging time. Allen also expressed his eagerness for Campbell’s return, although he cautioned that there is no precise timeline yet for when fans can expect to see him back on stage with Def Leppard. “Just like my situation way back in the day, I think what it is, is we just need to give Viv time to figure things out in his own time. And I think that’s the most important thing. We don’t want to put any kind of pressure on Vivian. We never would. It’s about his comfort level. And if he can be out there with us, then we’re just going to love that.”
READ MORE: Def Leppard Plays First 2025 Show without Vivian Campbell
Trunk acknowledged that Campbell has maintained a positive outlook throughout his prolonged struggle with cancer, which has lasted more than a decade. Allen noted, “I think that that’s the thing that gets him through.” He continued, “It amazes me too, that he’s able to rise above. That inspires me. That inspires me to want to go out there. The fact that I have bandmates that are – they’re strong. They’ve got incredible characters. So I’m just really happy that Viv’s on the up and up. And, I’m looking forward – I haven’t seen him in quite a while – so I’m really looking forward to seeing him and just supporting him along his journey.”
Def Leppard to Deliver an Electrifying Performance on the 2025 Tour
As Def Leppard gears up for a bustling summer, the band has an exciting lineup of festival appearances and headlining concerts planned, featuring Bret Michaels and Extreme as opening acts. This tour promises to be a thrilling experience for fans. When asked what audiences can anticipate from their performances, Allen confidently stated that Def Leppard aims to “come out there guns blazing” with an electrifying set list that primarily showcases their greatest hits.
“The nature of the tour is really centered around festival settings,” Allen explained. “So I think in that situation it’s good to play music that people really want to hear.” This approach ensures that fans will be treated to a nostalgic journey through the band’s iconic discography, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Exploring the Best Song From Every Def Leppard Album
At the core of their artistry, Def Leppard is driven by an unyielding passion for music. This deep-rooted love and belief in the transformative power of music – whether it be their own creations or those of fellow artists – consistently brings Def Leppard back to their musical roots.
Gallery Credit: Ultimate Classic Rock Staff