Legendary Guitarist Eddie Van Halen Dies from Cancer

Eddie Van Halen, the legendary lead guitarist for Van Halen, died at the age of 65 on Tuesday from cancer.

“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father … has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning,” wrote his son, Wolfgang Van Halen via Twitter. “My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop.”

Eddie Van Halen

In a 2015 interview with Billboard, Eddie Van Halen shared that he received treatment in 2000 for a tongue cancer diagnosis that had spread to his esophagus. He had one-third of his tongue removed two years later and was declared cancer-free after the surgery.

Reports surfaced in 2019 that he was receiving treatment for throat cancer.

Legendary rock stars and musicians shared their condolences on Twitter.

Former lead vocalist of Black Sabbath and “Prince of Darkness” Ozzy Osbourne shared his thoughts on the death of Eddie Van Halen.

“Eddie Van Halen was one of the nicest guys I ever worked with and we shared so many laughs together. His influence on music and especially the guitar has been immeasurable. He was an absolute legend Eddie, I’ll see you on the other side, my friend. Love, Ozzy,” wrote Osbourne.

Singer-songwriter Sammy Hagar also shared his condolences on Twitter with a photo of he and Van Halen sitting together on a plane.

“Heartbroken and speechless. My love to the family,” wrote Hagar.

Van Halen's ex-wife, Valerie Bertinelli, also shared her condolences on Twitter. "Through all your challenging treatments for lung cancer, you kept your gorgeous spirit and that impish grin," she wrote. "I'm so grateful Wolfie and I were able to hold you in your last moments. I will see you in our next life my love."

Editor's Note: This article was updated on Oct. 7, 2020, as it could not be confirmed as to which cancer led to his death