Bret Michaels has officially outlined his plans for 2026, addressing growing speculation about whether POISON would reunite for a 40th-anniversary tour. His decision, shared in a new Instagram statement, confirms that he will not participate in the proposed reunion. Instead, he plans to focus on hitting the road with the Bret Michaels Band, marking a major turning point in POISON’s ongoing history.
For months, fans have discussed rumors surrounding a possible POISON reunion. Excitement grew after Rikki Rockett, C.C. DeVille, and Bobby Dall agreed to a Live Nation contract offer for a full 2026 anniversary tour. Yet Michaels has decided to move in a different direction. Although the tour would have been a landmark celebration for the group, the frontman chose a separate path—one rooted in his personal vision for the next chapter of his career.
Michaels expressed enthusiasm for what lies ahead, emphasizing the energy he hopes to bring to his solo shows.
“From back in the day to now, I couldn’t be more excited for the 2026 shows with the Bret Michaels Band,” Michaels said. “I live and breathe music, sports, family and friends and I can’t wait to bring that energy to every stage and make it nothing but a good time!”
His statement highlights a strong commitment to performing and connecting with audiences. It also suggests that, at least for now, his creative and personal priorities lie outside POISON. This revelation has fueled further conversation about the internal dynamics of the band, especially as details from other members have surfaced.
During an interview with Talkin’ Bout Rock, drummer Rikki Rockett offered his perspective on how the reunion discussions unfolded. His comments shed light on why fans should not expect POISON to tour together in 2026.
Rockett explained:
“C.C., Bobby and I agreed. We thought it was great. We thought the money was great. We thought the lay of the land looked great. And then Bret looked at it and has not agreed to anything.”
This confirmation aligns with the concerns circulating in the rock community. While three of the four classic members were ready to move forward, Michaels declined to sign the contract. His decision effectively halted progress on the tour and left the future of POISON’s live plans uncertain. Fans who hoped to see the original lineup back on the road will now have to wait even longer, if such a reunion ever happens.
The situation carries even more weight considering that 2026 would mark forty years since POISON’s formation. The band rose to prominence in the mid-1980s, becoming icons of the glam metal movement and delivering hits like “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” “Talk Dirty to Me,” and “Nothin’ But a Good Time.” A reunion tour would have celebrated that legacy in front of a multigenerational fan base. Instead, Michaels’ decision has shifted the narrative.
Tensions within the band appear to be contributing to the stalled reunion. According to Blabbermouth, Rockett acknowledged a decline in communication between the members. He admitted that he and Michaels are not in contact at the moment.
This revelation underscores the difficulties POISON faces behind the scenes. While disagreements are not uncommon in long-running bands, the communication breakdown has clearly affected their ability to make decisions as a unified group. For many fans, this raises concerns about the future of the classic lineup and whether they will ever share a stage together again.
Rockett’s additional remarks reveal a deeper layer of frustration:
He noted that Michaels had not agreed to any part of the contract, even though the other members felt the offer was promising. This contrast suggests a divide not only in communication but also in creative vision and priorities. While Rockett, DeVille, and Dall remain open to the anniversary tour, Michaels is preparing for a different musical path in 2026.
Although the news may disappoint fans hoping for a major POISON celebration, Michaels’ enthusiasm for his solo tour suggests that he remains committed to his craft. His focus on the Bret Michaels Band reflects a desire to keep performing while balancing the personal values he highlighted—family, friends, sports, and music.
Additionally, this decision may offer him more flexibility than a full-scale reunion tour. Solo shows often allow artists to adapt their schedules, curate setlists freely, and explore other creative outlets. Michaels has long maintained a strong presence outside POISON, including his “Parti-Gras” tours, philanthropic efforts, and television appearances.
However, Rockett’s comments make it clear that the remaining members feel ready to perform together. Their agreement with the Live Nation contract suggests both confidence and willingness to revisit POISON’s legacy. Without Michaels, though, the band cannot move forward with an official 40th-anniversary run.
This crossroads in POISON’s history brings up a familiar storyline in classic rock: the challenge of keeping long-running bands united while individual members’ priorities shift. It also reflects how aging musicians navigate the demands of touring, creative direction, and personal well-being.
For now, fans can expect Michaels to deliver an energetic and celebratory tour with his own band. Rockett, DeVille, and Dall may continue to explore their own opportunities while leaving the door open for future collaboration. Whether POISON will reunite again remains uncertain, but the conversation surrounding the band continues to evolve.
As 2026 approaches, fans will be watching closely to see how the group’s story develops. For now, the only confirmed path leads toward the Bret Michaels Band, while POISON’s future waits for clarity.
