Def Leppard Tour Looms: Phil Collen Demands Band Makes this. As the iconic British rock band Def Leppard prepares to launch its highly anticipated 2025 tour, internal tensions have cast a shadow over what should be a celebratory run across North America and beyond. According to sources close to the band, longtime guitarist Phil Collen has issued an emotional ultimatum to his fellow bandmates: make a promise to protect his family’s interests or risk losing him altogether.
The demand comes in the wake of explosive allegations involving fellow guitarist Vivian Campbell, who has been accused—by unnamed insiders—of “sabotaging” internal dynamics within the group. While no official statements have been released from Campbell’s camp, whispers of discontent have grown louder, with some claiming his recent behind-the-scenes behavior has strained relationships and eroded trust.
Phil Collen, who has been with Def Leppard since 1982 and helped drive their meteoric rise during the Pyromania and Hysteria eras, is reportedly frustrated by what he sees as an erosion of unity within the band. A source familiar with the situation stated, “Phil is fiercely loyal to Def Leppard, but his family comes first. He’s made it clear that if the band can’t assure him that these internal issues won’t put his family or his legacy at risk, he’s ready to walk.”
The promise Collen is demanding reportedly involves a formal agreement that ensures his family’s interests are protected in the event of any internal legal or financial turmoil stemming from future disputes. “It’s not about ego or drama,” the source continued. “It’s about responsibility and boundaries.”
Fans are understandably shaken. Def Leppard’s dual-guitar attack—spearheaded by Collen and Campbell—has been a signature sound for decades. Losing Collen on the eve of a massive tour would not only alter the band’s musical chemistry but could also mark the end of an era.
For now, the band has remained publicly silent. Tour rehearsals continue, and ticket sales remain strong. But behind closed doors, decisions are being made that could define the future of one of rock’s most enduring acts.
Whether the band can resolve these tensions before the first chord rings out remains to be seen.
