The Cure Bassist Simon Gallup Falls Ill Mid-Tour, Son Eden Steps In for Berlin Shows

The Cure are currently on a UK and European tour, including a three-night run at Berlin's Wuhlheide. Shortly before the first of those shows on Thursday, July 10, 2026, longtime bassist Simon Gallup — who has played with the band for over three decades — suddenly fell ill. His son Eden Gallup stepped in on bass at the last minute and completed the performance. The band dedicated the night's encore opener, "Lullaby," to Simon.

Robert Smith confirms Eden will cover remaining dates

After the show, frontman Robert Smith posted on Instagram explaining the situation, saying Simon had suddenly become sick shortly before the Berlin opener and that Eden had "stepped sideways" to save the show. Smith confirmed Simon has not yet recovered and that Eden will continue filling in for the remaining Berlin dates.

Smith closed the post with: "Hope you'll join us in wishing Simon a speedy recovery — and thank you, Eden! Onward." According to NME, fans in the crowd who noticed Gallup's absence quickly recognized his son as the stand-in on stage.

Band updates: new material and collaborations

The European leg centers on the band's 2024 album Songs Of A Lost World. Smith revealed last month that its follow-up has been "finished," with another, more pop-leaning album also in the works.

Smith recently collaborated with Olivia Rodrigo on the new track "What's Wrong With Me," after joining her headline set at Glastonbury 2025 — the two subsequently went into the studio together. Smith also contributed to The Rolling Stones' upcoming album Foreign Tongues, playing guitar on "Divine Intervention" and providing backing vocals and synth on "Never Wanna Lose You."