Gillian Gilbert, the keyboardist for the renowned band New Order, has recently revealed that she is battling cancer. This disclosure aims to rectify a misunderstanding that emerged from a prior interview with her husband, Stephen Morris, the band's drummer. Morris had mentioned a "health problem" that prevented him from touring, leading to widespread speculation that he was gravely ill. Gilbert's subsequent statement clarified that while Stephen is in good health, she is the one living with cancer and undergoing treatment, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and the music community.
The announcement from Gillian Gilbert, aged 65, follows her and her husband Stephen Morris's decision to step back from New Order's upcoming performances due to "personal health reasons." In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Stephen had vaguely referred to a "health problem" that restricted his ability to travel internationally. He further stated that it was "pretty serious" and not something a cure would easily be found for. This naturally led many to infer that Stephen was the one facing a severe illness.
However, Gillian took to Instagram to gently correct this misinterpretation, stating, "Thankfully, he is well. It is in fact me, who like many other people is living with cancer." She expressed gratitude for the kind words and well wishes received by both of them, acknowledging how the misunderstanding arose. The couple requested privacy as Gillian continues her treatment. The band had previously issued a statement in June regarding their absence from tour dates, specifically mentioning the Primavera in Chile concert, citing the inability of Stephen and Gillian to join due to the aforementioned health circumstances.
This news also came amidst comments from former bassist Peter Hook, who departed from the band in 2007. Hook had speculated that Bernard Sumner would be touring solo under the New Order name, claiming Stephen and Gillian had left. He even noted that Sumner had booked a gig in Chile as the sole remaining member. The current touring lineup typically includes Bernard Sumner, Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert, guitarist Phil Cunningham, and bassist Tom Chapman, the group having formed in 1980 after the passing of their Joy Division bandmate, Ian Curtis.
Gillian Gilbert's candid revelation brings clarity to a situation that had been shrouded in ambiguity, shifting the focus to her personal health journey while dispelling concerns about her husband Stephen. Her transparency highlights the challenges many face with serious illnesses, even in the public eye, and reinforces the need for accurate information to prevent misinterpretations.
