Dave Mustaine Rules Out Including Former Band Members During Megadeth's Farewell Tour

Dave Mustaine has confirmed that he won't invite former Megadeth members to join their upcoming farewell tour, telling Guitar World, "It's not 'puppet show Megadeth.'" The thrash metal band announced last year they're ending with a final album in 2026 and one last tour in support of the record. When asked about bringing back ex-members, Mustaine said, "There's a lot of people. That would be a huge undertaking," while adding, "I'd rather keep doing what we're doing and let the fans [experience] Megadeth music." He referenced their 2023 reunion with former guitarist Marty Friedman in Japan, but stated he won't do anything "unfair to the other band members." Mustaine previously suggested the farewell tour could last "three to five years." Megadeth's self-titled 17th studio album is due out on January 23, and features the previously released singles "Tipping Point," "I Don't Care," and "Let There Be Shred."