- KING DIAMOND ANNOUNCES PERMANENT DEPARTURE FROM MERCYFUL FATE: “THE FINAL CURTAIN HAS FALLEN”
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the heavy metal community, legendary frontman King Diamond has officially announced his permanent departure from Mercyful Fate, marking the end of an era for one of metal’s most influential bands.
The announcement came via a somber video message shared across King Diamond’s social media channels late Friday evening. “After four decades of summoning darkness together, I have made the deeply personal decision to step away from Mercyful Fate,” he said. “This is not a decision made lightly, but the time has come for the final curtain to fall.”
King Diamond cited the need to focus fully on his solo project, the King Diamond band, and the completion of the long-anticipated concept album Saint Lucifer’s Hospital 1920. He also noted health priorities and a desire to explore new creative directions. “Mercyful Fate has always been about unity in darkness,” he said. “But for me, that chapter is now complete.”
Guitarist Hank Shermann, the band’s co-founder, responded in a statement: “I respect King’s choice and thank him for the decades of incredible moments. Mercyful Fate would not exist without him.”
Fans are mourning the departure but remain hopeful that Mercyful Fate might continue in a new form. No confirmation has been given about the band’s future without its iconic vocalist.
King Diamond first co-founded Mercyful Fate in 1981. The band’s influence spans black metal, heavy metal, and even shock rock. Their albums Melissa and Don’t Break the Oath remain cornerstones of the genre.
This announcement signals a true end of an era. As the metal world bows to one of its most theatrical and visionary figures, fans are left to wonder: will Mercyful Fate rise again without its king?
