Jon Bon Jovi, the iconic frontman of the legendary rock band, is gearing up for his band’s first tour in four years following a life-altering vocal surgery. The 63-year-old star, known for his unmistakable voice, recently sat down with Roisin O’Connor to talk about the making of Forever (Legendary Edition), his vulnerability in the face of health challenges, and the joy of his expanding family.
For much of the past two years, Bon Jovi wasn’t sure whether he’d ever be able to tour again. After undergoing risky surgery to repair his vocal cords following a severe issue at the end of the band’s 2022 tour, he found himself unable to promote their 16th studio album. What was initially intended as a grand 40th anniversary celebration had to be postponed.
“It sucked,” Bon Jovi admits, recalling the frustration of not being able to perform after such a long wait. He had hoped to tour immediately after releasing Forever, but the reality of recovery meant he had to delay those plans. As a result, the album’s title—Forever—felt more ironic than celebratory.
But now, the singer is back, and the band has announced a series of highly anticipated stadium shows for 2026, starting with a nine-night residency at Madison Square Garden before finishing up with three nights at London’s Wembley Stadium. “I’m just dipping my toe in,” Bon Jovi says, a grin on his face. “I’ve got 45 songs ready to go.”
At 63, Bon Jovi is still the embodiment of rock star confidence. Sitting in the famed RAK Studios in northwest London, he remains as charismatic as ever. From his off-duty attire to his famous hair, Bon Jovi’s presence is undeniable. He’s also still humbled by the support from both his band and his family throughout his recovery.
“I’ve had days where I thought I was done,” he admits, but thanks to the unwavering support of his bandmates, and the dedication of his loved ones, he’s made an incredible comeback.
In addition to his musical achievements, Bon Jovi has also embraced fatherhood and grandparenthood. His son Jake, 23, and daughter-in-law, actress Millie Bobby Brown, recently adopted a daughter, making Jon a grandfather. His eldest son, Jesse, is also expecting a baby.
“It’s the next chapter,” he says with a smile. “We have the tree, the drunken uncle, the burnt food—it’s all part of the tradition.”
While his youngest son, Romeo, is pursuing his own musical path with his band Lawn, Bon Jovi is proud that his children are carving out their own futures, just as he did when he was 16, driving to gigs before heading to high school.
When it comes to his new album Forever (Legendary Edition), Bon Jovi says it’s all about staying true to the music. The album features new versions of classic tracks, including collaborations with Bruce Springsteen, Avril Lavigne, and Robbie Williams.
“Rock music is coming back,” Bon Jovi believes, referencing his own experience seeing Oasis perform live. “I wanted to smell a rock band, feel the energy. It’s about getting back to basics.”
For Bon Jovi, the future looks brighter than ever. With a healthy voice, a growing family, and a packed stadium tour on the horizon, he’s ready to make his legendary comeback—again.
Forever (Legendary Edition) is out now. Bon Jovi’s Forever Tour will hit the UK from 28 August to 4 September 2026.