In a heartfelt announcement, drummer Mike Dupke, known for his work with bands like W.A.S.P. and Hair Of The Dog, has declared his absence from Wednesday 13’s upcoming 2024 tour dates. Dupke cited the recurrence of his son Rhett’s cancer as the reason for his withdrawal.
In a statement, Dupke expressed the challenging situation: “My son Rhett’s cancer is back. After being in remission (for the second time) since October of 2022, his recent routine scan showed a new neuroblastoma spot that requires immediate attention.”
Acknowledging Dupke’s absence, Wednesday 13 conveyed solidarity, stating, “Sending love to our brother Mike and family during this difficult time.” The band confirmed that Davier Perez from DevilDriver will step in as the substitute drummer for the U.S. leg of the tour, with plans still underway to secure a replacement for the UK and Europe dates.
Wednesday 13, alongside former Murderdolls member Jack Tankersley, is set to embark on the “Fiend For The Fans Tour 2024,” supporting nü metal legends Coal Chamber. The tour will feature performances of Murderdolls’ iconic songs from their debut album “Beyond The Valley Of The Murderdolls” (2002) and “Women And Children Last” (2010), paying tribute to the band’s glam punk legacy.
Additionally, Wednesday 13 will join Fear Factory for select tour dates. The comprehensive tour schedule includes stops across major cities in the U.S. from August to September.
Here are the tour dates:
August
23 – Las Vegas, NV – House Of Blues
24 – Anaheim, CA – House Of Blues
25 – Tempe, AZ – The Marquee
28 – San Antonio, TX – The Aztec Theatre
29 – Fort Worth, TX – Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall
30 – Corpus Christie, TX – House Of Rock
31 – Houston, TX – House Of Blues
September
1 – Dallas, TX – House Of Blues
3 – Orlando, FL – Hard Rock Live
4 – Atlanta, GA – The Eastern
5 – Savannah, GA – Victory North
6 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works
7 – Sauget, IL – Pop’s
8 – Columbus, OH – KEMBA Live!
10 – Greenville, NC – Radio Room
11 – Norfolk, VA – The NorVa
12 – Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live!
13 – Harrisburg, PA – HMAC
14 – Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theater
15 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
17 – Boston, MA – Big Night Live
18 – New York, NY – Palladium Times Square
19 – Cleveland, OH – Agora Ballroom
20 – Flint, MI – The Machine Shop
21 – Flint, MI – The Machine Shop
22 – Newport, KY – MegaCorp Pavilion
24 – Fort Wayne, IN – Piere’s Entertainment Center
25 – Chicago, IL – Concord Music Hall
26 – Milwaukee, WI – Eagles Ballroom
27 – Minneapolis, MN – Myth Live
28 – Omaha, NE – Barnato
29 – Denver, CO – Summit
Fans and supporters are encouraged to show their understanding and support during this challenging time for Mike Dupke and his family.
