David Ellefson Thinks “Any Reason That I’m Not There Now Is Unfounded” Regarding Megadeth Farewell Tour Exclusion

Former David Ellefson has opened up about his exclusion from Megadeth’s ongoing farewell tour, insisting that any reason for keeping him off the run is “unfounded.”

Ellefson, who was dismissed from the band in 2021 following the release of private footage, has publicly expressed interest in rejoining the group for its final touring cycle. Despite reconciling with vocalist and guitarist Dave Mustaine in the years after their early-2000s royalty dispute, the two sides reportedly fell out again during the 2021 scandal, and Ellefson has not been invited back since.

In recent statements, Mustaine made clear he does not plan to bring former members back, citing concerns about fairness to the current lineup. Speaking to Guitar World, he said:

“I can’t really do that, because of the behavior of one of the band members in the past. I just can’t. Because, first off, it would be unfair to the other band members if I didn’t play with them as well.”

Ellefson, however, remains adamant that his past tenure warrants reconsideration. In a conversation with UnDinamo – La última Radio de Rock, he explained:

“I have always said that I am available for that. And I would do it because I think any reason that I’m not there now is unfounded. It’s untruthful and it’s unfair because clearly there’s nothing wrong. So, I would hope and even pray to [God] that any misunderstanding, any bitterness would be removed, that that would somehow be dissipated.”

He also reflected on other former members participating in the band’s activities, highlighting guitarist Marty Friedman as an example:

“So for me, yes. Marty coming back to play a couple of shows [with Megadeth in 2023] showed his willingness, which I think was great. I would wish that Dave… Look, if it were just me and Dave sitting here, I’m sure everything would be fine, but there’s a lot of people with influences, and that can be sticky. So my hope is that the voice of the fans gets louder than any other voice that would tear it apart.”

Ellefson’s comments underscore his desire to participate in the band’s final chapter while also highlighting the complicated dynamics that continue to influence the group’s farewell plans.

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[Via Blabbermouth]