Oasis guitarist Paul ‘Bonehead’ Arthurs has announced he will be stepping away from upcoming tour dates due to his ongoing cancer treatment. He shared the news in a statement on his Instagram page.
The guitarist revealed his diagnosis and explained the reason for his temporary absence from the tour.
“Early this year I was diagnosed with prostate cancer,” Arthurs said. “The good news is I’m responding really well to treatment, which meant I could be part of this incredible tour.”
He went on to detail which shows he would miss and expressed optimism about his return.
“Now, I am having to take a planned break for the next phase of my care, so I’ll be missing the gigs in Seoul, Tokyo, Melbourne and Sydney,” he continued. “I’m really sad to be missing these shows but I’m feeling good and will be back ready to go in time for South America.”
Arthurs concluded with a message to fans: “Have an amazing time if you’re going this month and I’ll see you back onstage with the band in November.”
The guitarist’s temporary departure comes during what marks a historic moment for the band and its fans worldwide.
Arthurs was a founding member and rhythm guitarist of Oasis, the influential British rock band formed in 1991. He played a crucial role in shaping the band’s distinctive Britpop sound during their peak years. He contributed guitar work and backing vocals on all albums until his departure in 1999. His return for the 2025 reunion tour has been highly anticipated by longtime fans.
The current tour represents the first time the band has performed together since their breakup in 2009. The highly anticipated reunion tour covers major cities across the UK and internationally. It celebrates the band’s legacy with classic hits and fan favorites from their catalog. The tour has generated significant excitement among fans who have waited over 15 years for the band to reunite.
Arthurs has been undergoing treatment including radiation therapy and hormonal treatment since his diagnosis. His condition has been responding well to treatment. This has allowed him to participate in the earlier stages of the reunion tour. He continues to monitor his health closely with his medical team as he prepares for his return to the stage.
The guitarist is expected to rejoin the band for their South American tour dates in November, following the completion of his current phase of treatment.
