Hayley Williams speaks out after ex-husband Chad Gilbert dies aged 45

Paramore star Hayley Williams has spoken out after ex-husband Chad Gilbert passed away last week at the age of 45.

Over the weekend (20 September), Gilbert's family broke the news that the New Found Glory guitarist had 'passed away peacefully in his sleep' surrounded by friends and family, with his ‘wife and mother by his side just as he wished' following a battle with cancer.

Williams, 37, who split from Gilbert in 2017 following their wedding the year prior in 2016, has since paid tribute to him in a social media post.

Taking to Instagram yesterday (23 September), Williams shared a text post statement to her 4.6 million followers.

Hayley Williams has spoken out for the first time following her ex-husband Chad Gilbert's death on Sunday (Taylor Hill / Contributor / Getty Images)

It reads: "Have not known what to say or if it's appropriate.

"But I feel sure now that I want to bc life is made of the paths we cross and the reasons we cross them are infinite."

The 'Misery Business' singer continued: "Chad is indeed a legend in the scene and my time connected to him taught me a lot. He introduced me to people that continue to shape my life in beautiful ways, and to music and culture that has made life a lot richer.

Williams shared the statement to social media yesterday (Instagram/@yelyahwilliams)

"There isn't much that hasn't already been said about what he contributed to the musical world a lot of us grew up in.

"His influence and attitude guided the genre forward. His passion for fostering the community was inspiring and sticks with me."

Williams rounded off the Instagram Stories post: "I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore."

She concluded the heartfelt statement: "Sending love and my sympathies to his family, NFG fam, and all his friends."

The former couple were together for around 10 years before tying the knot in 2016 and splitting a year later in 2017 (Chelsea Lauren / Contributor / Getty Images)

Williams and Gilbert were an item for nearly 10 years, marrying in 2016 before splitting up the next year.

After their divorce, Gilbert went on to marry Lisa Cimorelli in 2020 before welcoming their daughter Lily in 2021.

Gilbert was sadly diagnosed with stage four adrenal cancer that same year.

While his family did not disclose his cause of death when announcing the news, they did say: "We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went."

In the announcement, they said how 'beloved and cherished' he was before adding: "He was a legendary musician, but his favourite accomplishment was being a husband and father.

"His biggest dreams came true."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.