A new report from TMZ has confirmed that guitarist Richie Sambora will not be rejoining BON JOVI for the band’s recently announced world tour. The report finally ends weeks of speculation among fans about a potential reunion between the legendary guitarist and his former bandmates.
TMZ Confirms Sambora’s Absence from Upcoming Tour
According to TMZ, sources close to the situation revealed that while Richie Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi are now on good terms, there are no plans for the guitarist to perform with the group.
“Richie and Jon Bon Jovi get along fine enough, at this point … but, Richie isn’t going to tour with the group,” TMZ reported.
“Sambora left the group almost 15 years ago, and our sources point out … that chapter in the group’s history is done and over.”
This statement settles persistent rumors about Sambora’s possible return, particularly after BON JOVI announced their upcoming tour earlier this year. Many fans had hoped the milestone would mark a long-awaited reunion, but it appears that won’t be happening.
A Look Back at Sambora’s Departure
Richie Sambora parted ways with BON JOVI in 2013, ending a partnership that helped define the band’s signature sound throughout the ’80s and ’90s. The split was reportedly amicable but came as a shock to fans at the time.
According to Soap Central, Sambora’s exit was largely due to personal reasons and a desire to focus on his family. Despite stepping away from the band, he briefly reunited with Jon Bon Jovi and the group in 2018 for their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
That performance sparked renewed hope that the guitarist might one day return to the stage with his former bandmates. However, with this latest update, it’s clear the two have chosen different paths.
Where BON JOVI Stands Today
BON JOVI continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a strong presence in the rock scene. The band recently announced an upcoming tour celebrating their career and supporting new material.
Frontman Jon Bon Jovi has been vocal about his optimism for the future of the band, even after his recent vocal surgery and recovery. He has also expressed affection and respect for Sambora in multiple interviews, emphasizing that there’s no bad blood between them.
In a 2024 interview, Jon noted, “Richie and I have a lot of history. We’ve been through so much together. There’s always love there, even if we’re on different paths now.”
Richie Sambora’s Solo Journey
Since leaving BON JOVI, Sambora has focused on solo projects and collaborations, exploring new musical directions beyond the band’s commercial rock sound. His recent releases reflect a more personal and introspective tone, showing a different side of the celebrated guitarist.
Sambora’s ongoing work also includes charity efforts and occasional guest appearances at major music events. While fans may not see him back on stage with BON JOVI, his legacy as one of rock’s most influential guitarists remains firmly intact.
No Reunion — But No Rift Either
While Richie Sambora won’t be joining BON JOVI on tour, both sides appear to have moved forward peacefully. The respect between Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi remains evident, even if their professional relationship has concluded.
This latest development confirms what many insiders have suggested for years — that BON JOVI’s classic lineup will likely remain a memory of the past, even as the band’s music continues to unite generations of fans.
