Former Mercyful Fate bassist Timi Hansen has died at age 61 following a battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by his longtime bandmate King Diamond via Facebook.
Hansen himself addressed his illness back in August when Mercyful Fate announced that they would be reuniting next year, telling fans, "There are many questions about why I won't appear as part of the Mercyful Fate reunion in 2020. The honest explanation is simply that I am currently fighting a fight against cancer." The musician stated a desire to be back onstage with his old band, calling it his "big dream," but also approved the stand-in choice of Joey Vera (Armored Saint, Fates Warning) to take over for him on the upcoming dates, which will include a festival appearance at Copenhell.
"He was not just my roommate on the early Mercyful Fate tours, but he was always my favorite bass player of all times," King Diamond remembered him. "I was fortunate to have been able to visit him at his apartment with some other good friends, and we had a great afternoon that will never be forgotten.
He continued, "When I last talked to Timi on the phone on October 24th, I could understand that things had gotten tougher than they ever were, and yet he said 'we fight on'. I feel so so sad for his entire family, you have my absolute deepest sympathy. Rest in Peace my dear dear friend."
See King Diamond's full tribute below.
