Biffy Clyro's James Johnston to sit out 2026 tour to address his mental health
He's released a statement
Last updated 15th Dec 2025
Biffy Clyro bassist James Johnston has announced he will miss the band’s “upcoming tours” as he deals with "mental health problems which have led to addiction issues".
The 45-year-old musician released a heartfelt statement to fans this afternoon (15th December) confirming he won’t be performing with his twin brother Ben, and Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil at their 2026 shows.
James’ full statement reads: "I am heartbroken to let you know that I will not be joining the band on the upcoming tours.
“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.
"I am extremely sorry to Simon and Ben and thank them for their continued love, patience, support and understanding throughout this time.
"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.
"To all our fans, your support means so much to me and in the meantime, our dear friend Naomi Macleod will be taking care of bass duties, and I cannot think of a better person for the job.
“With love, James x”
Biffy Clyro are due to kick off their UK & Ireland tour at Belfast SSE Arena on Friday 9th January and conclude with a homecoming show at Glasgow OVO Hydro on Wednesday 21st January.
They visit Dublin, Nottingham, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff and Aberdeen as part of the trek, before playing their biggest show ever at London Finsbury Park on Friday 3rd July.
Featuring the huge lead single ‘A Little Love’, Biffy Clyro’s 10th studio album ‘Futique’ charted at Number 1 in the UK when it was released in September.