Biffy Clyro bassist James Johnston to sit out upcoming tour dates to address his mental health

Biffy Clyro bassist James Johnston has announced that he won't be part of the band's upcoming arena tour in order to address mental health issues that have plagued him for some time.

Breaking the news via a statement on the band's Instagram today (December 15), James says, "I am heartbroken to let you know that I will not be joining the band on the upcoming tours. For some time, I have been living with mental health problems which have led to addiction issues that I have kept concealed for a long time. This has caused significant problems for myself and everyone around me – the time has come to properly address my illnesses and deal with them.

"I am extremely sorry to Simon and Ben and thank them for their continued love, patience, support and understanding throughout this time.

"I have recently started to receive the professional help I need and would like to reassure you all that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

"To all our fans, your support means so much to me and in the meantime, our dear friend Naomi Macleod will be taking care of bass duties, and I cannot think of a better person for the job."

Biffy Clyro will kick off 2026 with a months-long tour across the UK and Europe in January and February, before heading to Australia and New Zealand, and on to summer festivals – including their own huge outdoor show at Finsbury Park in London.

The band were recently forced to postpone their December U.S. tour due to a visa mix-up.

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