New Order is facing an uncertain future after two of its original members, drummer Stephen Morris and keyboardist Gillian Gilbert, announced they will not perform live shows for the foreseeable future due to personal health reasons. This leaves lead vocalist and guitarist Bernard Sumner as the sole original member on stage for upcoming performances.
Band Statement Confirms Health Issues
In a statement released on June 29, 2026, the band said: "New Order are very happy to be playing Primavera in Chile in November marking the band's first performance there in seven years. Due to personal health reasons, Stephen and Gillian won't be touring for the foreseeable future and will not be joining for this show. Bernard, Phil and Tom are really sorry that Stephen and Gillian can't join us this time, but unfortunately the circumstances make it impossible."
The band had already been performing for over a decade without original bassist Peter Hook, who left in 2007 after a falling out over royalties. Hook later formed his own band, Peter Hook & The Light, which performs songs from Joy Division and New Order.
Only One Original Member Remains
With Morris and Gilbert stepping back, Sumner will be joined by Phil Cunningham on keyboards and Tom Chapman on bass for the Chile show. This development was foreshadowed in an interview with Peter Hook posted on YouTube on June 28, 2026, where he claimed: "Barney [Bernard] is touring in New Order on his own this year, which is quite interesting. They have actually booked a gig in Chile that he will be playing as the only member of New Order."
Sources close to the band told the Mirror that Hook's claims of a complete split were inaccurate, insisting that Stephen and Gillian remain part of New Order despite their absence from live shows.
History of Lineup Changes and Disputes
New Order formed in 1980 from the ashes of Joy Division after the death of singer Ian Curtis. The original lineup included Sumner, Hook, and Morris, with Gilbert joining on keyboards shortly after. The band became highly influential with their blend of rock and electronic music, achieving hits like "Blue Monday" (1983), which sold over a million copies.
Tensions with Hook escalated after his departure in 2007. When New Order reformed in 2011 without him, a major dispute over royalties led to a lawsuit in 2015. The financial differences were settled in 2017, but the band has remained fractured.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
New Order is scheduled to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year. However, Hook has already stated he will not perform live with the rest of the band. The future of the group remains uncertain, with only one original member currently committed to live performances.
