Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell has announced that his cancer has returned. The musician previously disclosed his initial Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis in 2013, with the disease recurring in 2015. Campbell shared the news during an interview with radio station YSKL, describing a particularly difficult period in late 2023 when he became seriously concerned about his health.
In response to the cancer’s progression, Campbell underwent a donor transplant in January 2025, which he indicated was his best chance for survival. Unfortunately, the procedure did not have the desired outcome, and the cancer has emerged again. He stated that he may require another transplant from a different donor within the next few years as part of his ongoing treatment plan.
Despite his health challenges, Campbell remains committed to his musical endeavors and shows no signs of slowing down. He continues performing with both Def Leppard, where he has served as guitarist since 1992, and his side project the Last in Line. Beyond music, Campbell pursues his passion for motorsports through rally driving, an interest that has captivated him since childhood when he considered pursuing a racing career.
