Def Leppard Legend Reveals Cancer Has Returned After Donor Transplant “Didn’t Stick”
Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell has revealed that his cancer has returned after a donor stem-cell transplant failed to take hold. Speaking to Radio YSKL FM, the 62-year-old musician, who has been open about his cancer battle for several years, said he is continuing treatment to manage the disease and may need a further transplant from another donor within the next few years in an attempt to achieve remission. The news matters to fans given Campbell's long tenure with the band, having joined in the early 1990s following the death of original guitarist Steve Clark.
Despite the setback, Campbell said he refuses to let the illness dominate his life, crediting his continued work and touring with giving him purpose and helping him cope mentally. He warned against letting a cancer diagnosis become all-consuming, urging others to overcome initial fear, look after their health and keep living as fully as possible. The guitarist remains active with Def Leppard, balancing ongoing treatment with performing and touring commitments.
- Vivian Campbell says his donor stem-cell transplant failed and cancer has returned.
- He is continuing treatment and may need another transplant within years.
- Campbell says staying active and working helps him cope mentally.