Fans of Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro were met with unexpected news on December 15, 2025, as bassist James Johnston announced he would not be joining the group on their much-anticipated upcoming UK and European tour. Johnston, 45, revealed in a heartfelt statement on the band's social media platforms that he has been struggling with mental health problems and addiction issues—challenges he admitted to concealing for a long time. His decision marks a significant moment for both the band and their devoted followers, as it comes just weeks before the tour’s scheduled start in January 2026.
Johnston’s message was deeply personal and candid, laying bare the emotional toll his struggles have taken. "I am heartbroken to let you know that I will not be joining the band on the upcoming tours," he wrote, according to BBC News. "For some time, I have been living with mental health problems which have led to addiction issues that I have kept concealed for a long time. This has caused significant problems for myself and everyone around me—the time has come to properly address my illnesses and deal with them."
The bassist’s openness about his ongoing battle struck a chord with fans and fellow musicians alike. He went on to express his deep regret for stepping back at such a crucial time for the band, apologizing directly to frontman Simon Neil and his twin brother, drummer Ben Neil. "I am extremely sorry to Simon and Ben and thank them for their continued love, patience, support and understanding throughout this time," Johnston shared. His gratitude extended to their fans as well, reassuring them, "There is light at the end of the tunnel." He added, "I have recently started to receive the professional help I need and would like to reassure you all that there is light at the end of the tunnel."
While the news was undoubtedly a blow, Johnston’s decision was met with an outpouring of support. Fans flooded social media with messages of encouragement. One commented, "Thank you for putting yourself first James. The hardest part is accepting that you need help. We're here when you're ready to come back." Another wrote, "Sending loads of love brother. You've done the hardest thing which is facing it. We're all rooting for you." The compassion from the band’s community was palpable, underscoring the importance of mental health awareness and support within the music industry.
With Johnston stepping away, the band has called upon session bassist Naomi MacLeod to fill in for the upcoming tour dates. According to STV News, MacLeod will join Biffy Clyro for shows in Aberdeen and Glasgow in January 2026, as well as other stops across the UK and Europe. The tour is set to kick off on January 9 in Belfast, followed by performances throughout the summer in Australia and New Zealand. Many UK dates, including a highly anticipated, sold-out show at Glasgow's Ovo Hydro at the end of January, are already generating significant buzz.
Despite the setback, Biffy Clyro’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. The band recently announced what will be the biggest performance of their career—headlining London’s Finsbury Park in July 2026. This milestone event is a testament to their enduring popularity and influence within the UK rock scene. Since forming in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, in 1995, Biffy Clyro has become one of the country’s most successful and beloved rock acts, achieving eight top-five albums, four of which reached number one in the UK charts.
Their breakthrough came in 2007 with their fourth album, Puzzle, which soared to number two on the UK charts and marked the band’s first Top 40 success. The group’s international acclaim was solidified with the release of Only Revolutions in 2009—a record that went platinum in the UK and earned a Mercury Prize nomination. The album produced hit singles such as "Bubbles" and "Many Of Horror," the latter of which reached number one when covered by X Factor winner Matt Cardle under the title "When We Collide."
Biffy Clyro’s subsequent albums have only built on their legacy. Opposites (2013), Ellipsis (2016), and A Celebration Of Endings (2020) all achieved number one status in the UK. Their latest album, Futique, released in September 2025 after a four-year hiatus, has been met with rave reviews. NME described it as one of the band’s "most personal and definitive records to date," while Mojo magazine praised the trio for finding a renewed sense of purpose. The album’s release has reignited excitement among fans and critics alike, setting the stage for what was expected to be a triumphant tour.
Yet, the news of Johnston’s departure serves as a sobering reminder of the pressures faced by musicians at the height of their careers. According to The Mirror, the bassist’s willingness to address his mental health and addiction issues publicly has sparked important conversations about well-being in the music industry. It’s a topic that resonates far beyond the world of rock, as artists across genres increasingly speak out about the need for support and understanding.
The band’s response to the situation has been one of empathy and solidarity. Simon Neil and Ben Neil’s support for Johnston has been unwavering, both in private and in their public statements. Their decision to bring in Naomi MacLeod—a trusted friend and accomplished session musician—reflects their commitment to both the band’s legacy and the well-being of its members.
For fans, the upcoming tour will undoubtedly feel different without Johnston on stage. His distinctive bass lines and energetic presence have been a core part of Biffy Clyro’s sound and live performances for decades. However, his honesty and courage in seeking help have only deepened the respect and admiration he commands within the band’s community.
As Biffy Clyro prepares to embark on their next chapter—with Naomi MacLeod stepping in and a landmark Finsbury Park show on the horizon—the band’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of music. Johnston’s message to fans, emphasizing hope and the importance of addressing mental health, will no doubt continue to resonate long after the final encore of this tour.
In a world where the spotlight often obscures personal struggles, Johnston’s openness offers a beacon for others facing similar challenges. The music will play on, but the conversation about mental health—thanks to voices like his—will be louder than ever.
