Sammy Hagar Discusses 21-Year Rift With Alex Van Halen in Latest Interview

LOS ANGELES, CA – Sammy Hagar recently opened up about his complicated relationship with former Van Halen bandmate Alex Van Halen, who he has not spoken to in over two decades. In an interview published on April 29, 2025, Hagar addressed the silence between the two rock musicians and reflected on their past. The lack of communication has persisted since Hagar’s departure from the band in 1996, with Alex failing to mention him by name in his recent memoir, ‘Brothers.’

Hagar highlighted a conversation he had with others about the rift. He expressed his confusion about the reasons behind Alex’s grudge, suggesting that it may stem from jealousy over their respective careers. ‘I think Al’s angry because I’m out doing it, and Mike [Anthony] and I are out doing it, and he can’t,’ Hagar said. ‘He seems like he doesn’t want to play drums or can’t play drums anymore.’

Hagar, now 77, described Alex’s frustrations regarding his own career and performance limitations. ‘If I put myself in his shoes, I would feel terrible if I couldn’t do it anymore,’ he said. Despite his hurtful experiences, Hagar reiterated his desire for peace and distance, stating, ‘Al, you’re fine. Just leave me alone. I’ll leave you alone. Everything’s good.’

Acknowledging Alex’s health struggles and the loss of Eddie Van Halen, Hagar added, ‘He’s had real health issues. Obviously, his brother died. None of this has been easy for him. He has reasons to feel bitter.’

Hagar is set to begin a Las Vegas residency titled ‘Best of All Worlds’ on April 30, featuring classic Van Halen songs. He also shared that he recently wrote a new single, ‘Encore, Thank You, Goodnight,’ inspired by a dream about Eddie Van Halen. Hagar remarked, ‘This was 100 percent a communication from the beyond.’

As the interview concluded, Hagar expressed a mixture of sadness and gratitude about his past with Van Halen, understanding the band’s dynamic but acknowledging the challenges he faces personally. Amidst the ongoing estrangement, he remains determined to keep the Van Halen legacy alive.