Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora have not been in touch since Sambora left the band suddenly in 2013. Each of them will be featured separately in the upcoming Hulu docuseries “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story.” Before the documentary’s debut in April, the lead singer shared some insights into his relationship with the band’s former lead guitarist.
Richie Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi were captured together back in 1985. Bon Jovi explained to Ultimate Classic Rock that they haven’t communicated because Sambora is no longer part of the band. He emphasized that despite the absence of contact, the love remains. However, it’s been 11 years since Sambora stopped showing up, dealing with personal and substance abuse issues. Phil X had to step in on more than one occasion due to these challenges.
In 2013, Sambora exited Bon Jovi during the initial part of their Because We Can tour, just hours before a scheduled performance in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He later expressed to PEOPLE that he had no choice but to leave, citing personal reasons. Phil X officially took over his role in 2016.
Sambora reflected in 2021 about his difficult decision to leave, acknowledging the lack of popularity it garnered. However, he emphasized the necessity of his choice, given his need to focus on his personal life and family, particularly his daughter Ava.
Joining Bon Jovi in 1983 as the replacement for original lead guitarist Dave Sabo, Sambora released his debut solo album, “Stranger In This Town,” in 1991. He continued to perform and tour with Bon Jovi until his departure in 2013. Sambora made a one-time return for the band’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction in 2018 and has not dismissed the possibility of a future reunion.
In the trailer for “Thank You, Goodnight,” Sambora expresses regret not about leaving, but about the manner in which he did it. “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story” is set to premiere on Hulu on April 26.
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