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Floor Jansen Announces Departure from Nightwish After Over a Decade of Music and Memories
June 3, 2025 – Helsinki, Finland
In a heartfelt statement shared across her social media platforms today, Floor Jansen announced that she will be stepping down as the lead vocalist of Nightwish, bringing to an end a remarkable chapter that began in 2013.
> “After much soul-searching, reflection, and discussions with my family and the band, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to part ways with Nightwish. This has not been an easy choice, but one I make with love, gratitude, and peace in my heart.”
Jansen, who joined the band in the wake of Anette Olzon’s departure, quickly became a fan favorite. Her powerhouse vocals, commanding stage presence, and emotional range breathed new life into Nightwish’s evolving sound. She fronted three studio albums with the band: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015), Decades: Live in Buenos Aires (2019), and Human. :II: Nature. (2020), as well as the forthcoming album currently in production.
> “Nightwish changed my life. Tuomas, Emppu, Kai, Troy — thank you for the music, the friendship, and the thousands of memories on and off stage. I will forever cherish what we created together.”
Floor cited personal reasons, including her health, growing family, and the desire to focus on her solo career, as key factors in her decision. She emphasized that the split is amicable and that there is no drama behind the scenes.
> “I’ve grown as an artist and person, and I now feel called to explore new paths — musically, creatively, and spiritually. My upcoming solo work will be a continuation of that journey.”
Tuomas Holopainen responded with deep respect and support:
> “Floor is irreplaceable. But more than that, she’s family. We support her decision fully and wish her nothing but the best in everything she does. Her voice will echo in our songs forever.”
As of now, Nightwish has not announced a replacement vocalist, nor confirmed their plans regarding future touring or album releases.
Fans worldwide have flooded social media with tributes, sharing live footage, lyrics, and messages of love for the Dutch soprano who redefined the band’s modern era.