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By BRIAN GIFFIN

VETERAN metal guitar god Ross “the Boss” Friedman has revealed he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease. 

ALS is a degenerative nerve condition that prohibits voluntary muscle control.

In a statement, Friedman’s publicist wrote: “The diagnosis followed several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs. A series of very minor strokes was initially thought to have been the cause, but changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength.”

In a career that spans over 50 years, Friedman was the founding member of both NY proto-punk band The Dictators and power metal giants Manowar. He was also a member of French rockers Shakin’ Street. His solo band toured Australia in 2025.

“It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar,” Friedman wrote in a statement of his own. “But the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”

Friedman’s most recent recording is Death Dealer’s new album, Reign of Steel.

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Brian Giffin

Author Brian Giffin

Brian Giffin is a metalhead, author, writer and broadcaster from the Blue Mountains in Australia. His life was changed forever after seeing a TV ad for 'The Number of the Beast' in 1982. During the 90s he wrote columns and reviews for Sydney publications On the Street, Rebel Razor, Loudmouth and Utopia Records' magazine. He was the creator and editor of the zine LOUD! which ran from 1996 until 2008, and of Loud Online that lasted from 2010 until 2023 when it unexpectedly spontaneously combusted into virtual ashes. His weekly community radio show The Annex has been going since 2003 on rbm.org.au. He enjoys heavy rock and most kinds of metal (except maybe symphonic power metal), whisk(e)y and beer.

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