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Journey drummer Deen Castronovo has temporarily stepped away from the band’s ongoing “Final Frontier” farewell tour to address personal health matters. The group confirmed the news on November 13, 2026, announcing that Steve Murphy will handle drums for the remainder of November.
In their statement, the musicians said Castronovo had decided to take time away after an extensive year of touring and expressed their full support for him. The announcement did not specify the nature of the health concerns, and no return date has been confirmed.
Dear Friends
After careful consideration and an extensive year of touring, our talented, longtime drummer Deen Castronovo has decided to step away to focus on personal health matters that require his attention. He has our full support during this time and extends his heartfelt thanks to the fans for the love, encouragement, and kindness he has received. Native New Yorker Steve Murphy who comes to us from working with bands such as Alan Parsons Project, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Christopher Cross and Jack Bruce will be joining us for the remainder of November. We look forward to continuing to share unforgettable nights of music with all of you.
Murphy is a drummer, vocalist, producer and engineer who has performed with The Hit Men and worked with musicians associated with The Alan Parsons Project and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. He made his debut with Journey at the band’s Cleveland show on November 12.
Keyboardist Jonathan Cain introduced Murphy to the audience during that performance, acknowledging that it was his first concert with the group. The temporary arrangement will allow the band to continue its scheduled farewell performances while Castronovo focuses on his health.
The change follows several recent shows during which Castronovo was unable to complete his usual duties. At a concert in Boston on November 10, longtime drum technician Steve Toomey took over partway through the set. A similar situation occurred during the band’s October performance in Tulsa.
The “Final Frontier” farewell tour began on February 28, 2026, in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Its current leg started on September 12 in Los Angeles and is scheduled to conclude on November 28 in San Francisco.
The next performance announced in the original report was set for Saturday, November 14 in Greenville, South Carolina. Additional November dates are part of the itinerary, but a complete verified venue-by-venue schedule was not included in the source, so those stops have not been reconstructed here.
Fans should consult Journey’s official website for the complete schedule, ticket details and any updates concerning the touring lineup.
Castronovo first joined Journey in 1998 and became known for combining powerful drumming with backing vocals and occasional lead singing. After leaving the band in 2015, he returned in 2021 and resumed touring with the group.
The current lineup includes guitarist Neal Schon, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, vocalist Arnel Pineda, bassist Todd Jensen and keyboardist Jason Derlatka. Murphy’s temporary arrival ensures that the musicians can continue their final tour commitments while supporting their longtime bandmate.
The band thanked fans for their encouragement and understanding. Further information about Castronovo’s health should come from the musician or his representatives rather than speculation.
