Guitarist Andy LaRocque has left King Diamond after more than 40 years, describing the split as a mutual and amicable decision rather than a dismissal. LaRocque co-founded the band with King Diamond in 1985 following the pair's time in Mercyful Fate, and had performed on every studio album and tour since. The departure marks the end of one of heavy metal's longest-running guitarist-frontman partnerships.

Both musicians issued statements expressing gratitude and mutual respect, with LaRocque saying he plans to focus on his newer project, Lex Legion, while King Diamond has already recruited former Ozzy Osbourne and Firewind guitarist Gus G as his replacement. King Diamond is currently working on a new concept album trilogy, starting with the long-delayed Saint Lucifer's Hospital 1920, though no release date has been confirmed. Lex Legion, which features fellow former King Diamond members Mikkey Dee, Pete Blakk and Hal Patino alongside vocalist Nils Frahm, released its debut album on 12 June and is set to play its first show on 28 November in Gothenburg, Sweden.