Def Leppard Guitarist Vivian Campbell Reveals Cancer Has Returned After Failed Transplant: ‘Just Don’t Give In’

Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell announced that his battle with cancer has returned after a failed transplant procedure. In an interview with El Salvadorian station YSKL, the 63-year-old musician discussed his approach to staying optimistic despite his diagnosis. Campbell explained that he experienced his first sense of hopelessness in the winter of 2023 as the cancer progressed rapidly.

Following a donor transplant in January 2025, the cancer returned, and he has since been undergoing treatments to manage the disease. Despite the setbacks, Campbell remains committed to performing with Def Leppard and his side project, the Last in Line, as well as pursuing his passion for racing rally cars. He emphasized the importance of keeping busy and staying focused on life beyond cancer, stating that it helps deflect attention from the illness and provides a sense of purpose and enjoyment.

Hodgkin lymphoma, the type of cancer Campbell has, is highly treatable through various methods such as chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant, according to the Mayo Clinic. Campbell, who has previously worked with Ronnie James Dio, Dio, Whitesnake, and Sweet Savage, joined Def Leppard in 1992 after the death of founding guitarist Steve Clark.

He acknowledged that some individuals may become solely focused on their cancer diagnosis, but he remains dedicated to living life to the fullest and encouraging others to prioritize their health and overcome fear. Def Leppard is scheduled to perform at the Seminole Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, on October 15, followed by dates in Mexico and Central and South America throughout October and November.