The Cure reveal why Simon Gallup vanished from Berlin stage

Robert Smith confirmed bassist became unwell before Berlin concert with family stepping in to keep performance running

The Cure have confirmed that longtime bassist Simon Gallup is temporarily stepping away from the band's current UK and European tour after falling ill, with his son Eden Gallup stepping in to perform while he recovers.

Fans first noticed Simon Gallup's absence during the band's July 10 performance at Berlin's Wuhlheide venue, where Eden Gallup took over bass duties. At the time, no official explanation had been provided, prompting speculation among concertgoers. The band later addressed the situation through an official statement from frontman Robert Smith, confirming that Gallup had become unwell shortly before taking the stage.

"Shortly before the first of our three Berlin Wuhlheide concerts yesterday, Simon was taken ill," Smith wrote. "His son Eden shifted sideways to save the show. Unfortunately, Simon is still not well enough to play, so Eden will be filling the bass breach again tonight."

Smith also thanked Eden for stepping in at short notice and asked fans to send their support to Gallup during his recovery.

"We hope you will join us in wishing Simon the speediest of recoveries. And Eden thanks. Onwards."

During the Berlin performance, the band dedicated "Lullaby", the opening song of the encore, to Gallup in recognition of his absence. The gesture was warmly received by fans attending the concert.

Simon Gallup has been one of the defining members of The Cure for decades. After first joining the band in 1979, he became an integral part of its signature sound across landmark albums including Seventeen Seconds, Faith, Pornography, Disintegration and Wish. Although he briefly left the group in the early 1980s, Gallup returned in 1984 and has remained a central figure ever since.

His temporary replacement also carries a strong connection to the band's history. Eden Gallup has previously worked alongside his father and is an experienced musician in his own right, allowing the group to continue its scheduled performances without cancelling shows.

The health update arrives during a busy period for The Cure. The band recently returned with Songs Of A Lost World, their first studio album in 16 years, earning widespread critical acclaim following its release in 2024. Robert Smith has also revealed that a completed follow up album is already finished, while another project featuring a lighter, more upbeat direction is also in development.

Away from The Cure, Smith has remained active on several collaborations. He recently joined Olivia Rodrigo on the song "What's Wrong With Me" after appearing during her GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL headline set in 2025. Smith is also featured on Foreign Tongues, the forthcoming album by The Rolling Stones, contributing guitar, synthesisers and backing vocals on selected tracks.