Full Breakdown
New Order Faces Changes Ahead of Chile Primavera and Hall of Fame
6/30/2026, 12:27:34 AM
New Order’s Chile Primavera Without Two Founders
Founding drummer Stephen Morris and keyboardist Gillian Gilbert announced they will not join New Order for the Fauna Primavera festival in Santiago, Chile, on November 26-28 2026. The band cited personal health reasons and confirmed Bernard Sumner will be the only original member performing, with Phil Cunningham (keyboards) and Tom Chapman (bass).
Historical Context and Recent Tensions
New Order emerged in Manchester in 1980 from Joy Division’s surviving members Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook and Stephen Morris, with Gillian Gilbert joining soon after. The group split from Hook in 2007, reformed without him in 2011, and settled a royalty lawsuit in 2017. Hook has declined to appear with the band at the Hall of Fame ceremony where New Order will be inducted in 2026.
Timeline of Recent Developments
June 29 2026 – Instagram statement confirming Morris and Gilbert’s touring withdrawal; November 14 2026 – Hall of Fame induction in Los Angeles; November 26-28 2026 – Primavera festival in Santiago.
Impact on Fans and the Band
The Chile concert marks New Order’s first appearance there in seven years. The absence of two founding members reduces the representation of the original lineup and fuels speculation about the band’s touring prospects.
Official Statements & Responses
The band’s announcement expressed regret over the absence, highlighted excitement for the Chile show, and reiterated that Morris and Gilbert remain members despite their non-participation in live dates.
Criticism & Opposition
Former bassist Peter Hook, also inducted this year, claimed Bernard Sumner will be “touring in New Order on his own this year,” calling the situation “quite interesting.” Hook also stated he will not stand with former bandmates at the Hall of Fame podium, underscoring ongoing discord.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Two sources mistakenly name “Gillian Morris” instead of “Gillian Gilbert,” showing inconsistent reporting. While the band asserts Morris and Gilbert retain membership, some outlets suggest uncertainty about New Order’s future cohesion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Due to personal health reasons, Stephen and Gillian won’t be touring for the foreseeable future and will not be joining for this show.” — New Order, Official Statement
- “Bernard, Phil and Tom are really sorry that Stephen and Gillian can't join us this time, but unfortunately the circumstances make it impossible.” — New Order, Official Statement
- “New Order are very happy to be playing Primavera in Chile in November marking the band's first performance there in seven years.” — New Order, Official Statement
- “Barney[Bernard] is touring in New Order on his own this year, which is quite interesting. They have actually booked a gig in Chile that he will be playing as the only member of New Order.” — Peter Hook, Former Bassist
What’s Next
New Order will perform at Primavera with the reduced lineup, then attend the Hall of Fame induction. Future touring will depend on Morris and Gilbert’s health and any further developments in the band’s internal dynamics.
