The metal music world was recently sent reeling when David Ellefson, former bassist for the legendary band MEGADETH, found himself embroiled in a controversial sex scandal, an incident that eventually forced his departure from the group. In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, Ellefson broke his silence, divulging details of the scandal that sent shockwaves throughout the music industry.
Ellefson spoke candidly, saying, “When your life is laid bare, there is nothing left to hide. It allows you to be your authentic self. We are all born naked into this world, so why should we feel shame? However, the humiliation it brought upon some people, such as my family, who are innocent, is my deepest regret. In deference to them, I will keep our family details out of the public eye during interviews, as per their wishes.”
In response to the controversy, Dave Mustaine, the leading figure of MEGADETH, made a definitive move. Recounting the aftermath, Ellefson said, “Mustaine, along with his manager and his lawyer, contacted me post-scandal. One of them suggested stepping back and letting me handle the situation, leaving the option open for my return. But Mustaine wasn’t in favour of this. His decision was final.”
During the scandal, Ellefson was quick to refute social media speculation that he was involved in the ‘grooming’ of a minor. He sought legal recourse, reporting the illegal dissemination of explicit images of himself by unidentified culprits to the Scottsdale, Arizona police department.
Mustaine, in his conversation with Metal Hammer, reflected on the complexity of making the call to sever ties with Ellefson from MEGADETH. He said, “I myself have blundered in the past, so I understand what it’s like to have people targeting you. But we had to bear in mind that MEGADETH is a complex entity. It’s not just the four band members; there are their families, management teams, agencies, technicians and more.”
Mustaine continued, “I have made past decisions that jeopardised the band’s security, so I’m familiar with the damage that can cause. However, I don’t wish to speak ill of someone who can’t defend themselves.” He further added, “It’s a tricky subject to navigate… But to put it simply, it was a difficult decision that had to be made. Numerous people were involved and as the leader, I had to face the music and make a decision.”
In the wake of this scandal, David Ellefson and MEGADETH have parted ways. The band, however, perseveres with current members Dave Mustaine, James LoMenzo, Dirk Verbeuren, and Kiko Loureiro. Their net worth varies from $3 million to $30 million, representing the different financial realities within the group.
The controversy has had far-reaching impacts, affecting not just the individuals involved, but also testing the mettle of one of metal’s most revered bands. As the dust begins to settle, MEGADETH’s future hangs in the balance, leaving fans to contemplate the legacy of a band that has weathered many a storm throughout its illustrious history.
