New Order Members Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert Exit Touring

New Order announced on Monday that two of its members, Stephen Morris and Gillian Gilbert, will not participate in upcoming tours, citing personal health reasons. The band stated in an Instagram post that "circumstances make it impossible" for them to join the scheduled Primavera show in Chile this November. This decision means that Bernard Sumner, the frontman, will be the only original member of the seminal post-punk band performing live.

Morris, who plays drums, and Gilbert, a keyboardist and guitarist, have been integral to New Order's sound and live performances for decades. Their absence marks a significant shift for the group, which formed in 1980 following the dissolution of Joy Division. The band has not provided further details regarding the specific nature of the health issues or the duration of their absence from touring.

New Order's live performances are a key component of their ongoing career, allowing them to connect with fans and showcase their extensive catalog. The announcement raises questions about the future of the band's touring activities and whether Morris and Gilbert will participate in future recording sessions. The band's statement offered no immediate clarity on these points, focusing solely on the immediate inability to tour.

Fans have expressed concern and support for Morris and Gilbert on social media platforms following the announcement. The band's management has not yet responded to requests for additional comment beyond the initial Instagram post. The Primavera festival in Chile is scheduled for November, and it remains to be seen how the band will adapt its live set without two of its long-standing members.