Sick of It All vocalist Lou Koller reveals cancer has returned after previous remission

Lou Koller, vocalist for the hardcore band Sick of It All, has confirmed that his esophageal cancer has recurred. He had previously announced in May that he was cancer-free, after undergoing treatment following his original diagnosis in mid-2024.

In a video message posted to social media, Koller acknowledged that the news is not what he hoped to share. He explained that he had been struggling with recovery, citing difficulty gaining weight and keeping food down. After undergoing scans, he learned that the cancer had returned—and, as he put it, “brought some friends with him.” He said he will take things day by day and keep supporters updated.

Koller’s initial diagnosis was made public in June 2024, when Sick of It All canceled their European tour. His brother and bandmate Pete Koller launched a GoFundMe to help with medical expenses, which raised over $300,000, aided by donations from peers in the punk and hardcore scene. In November 2024, a benefit concert titled “I’m In The Fight With Lou” was held at Irving Plaza in New York City, featuring bands such as Vision of Disorder, Life of Agony, Municipal Waste, Killing Time, and Crown of Thornz.

After completing his chemotherapy in early 2025, Koller announced in May that scans showed no signs of cancer remaining. But now, with evidence that the disease has recurred, the road ahead is uncertain. He expressed gratitude for the support he’s received and said he’ll keep fans informed as he moves forward with further treatment.