Moonspell Frontman Fernando Ribeiro Announces Permanent Departure from Band After 30 Years

•  Moonspell Frontman Fernando Ribeiro Announces Permanent Departure from Band After 30 Years

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global metal community, Fernando Ribeiro, the iconic frontman and founding member of Moonspell, has officially announced his permanent departure from the band. After more than three decades of defining gothic metal with his unmistakable voice and poetic lyricism, Ribeiro has chosen to step away from the stage—marking the end of an era for Portuguese metal.

The announcement came via a heartfelt video message posted on Moonspell’s official social media pages early this morning. “It is with both a heavy and grateful heart that I share this news,” Ribeiro began. “Moonspell has been my life, my voice, my passion for over 30 years. But I believe the time has come to let the wolf run free without me.”

Ribeiro made it clear that his decision is not due to internal band conflict or health issues, but rather a desire to explore other creative and personal paths. “I have given everything to this band, and now I feel it’s time to give something back to myself, my family, and the quieter parts of life I’ve long postponed.”

Moonspell’s remaining members—Pedro Paixão, Ricardo Amorim, Aires Pereira, and Hugo Ribeiro—have expressed both sorrow and respect. In a joint statement, they said, “Fernando’s departure leaves a void that can never truly be filled. But we honor his decision and remain committed to continuing the legacy we built together.”

There is currently no word on who, if anyone, will replace Ribeiro as vocalist. The band has postponed all planned 2025 tour dates and is expected to release a detailed update in the coming weeks.

For fans, this marks not just a departure—but the closing of a deeply emotion

al chapter.