***UPDATE*** GWAR’s manager, Jack Flanagan, has posted a statement regarding Brockie’s death which you can find here.
It’s a sad, sad day in the world of metal as we regret to inform our readers that GWAR founder and frontman, Dave Brockie, known by his stage name and character, Oderus Urungus, has passed away at the age of 50.
It’s been reported that Brockie’s roommate found his body Sunday in his home sometime between 3pm and 7pm, as confirmed by Richmond, Virginia police. The cause of death is currently unknown. The Richmond Police Department has stated, “Detectives do not suspect foul play at this time and the Medical Examiner’s Office will determine cause of death.”
In 1984, Brockie started what would go on to be one of the most recognizable, and often controversial, acts in metal and thrash music. GWAR, the self-proclaimed “Scumdogs of the Universe,” will simply never be the same, if they choose to continue on at all without their fearless leader. Our thoughts go out to the friends and family of the almighty Oderus Urungus, a one-of-a-kind frontman with a codpiece unrivaled in this universe or any other.
You can view one of Oderus’ final (and insightful) tweets, some tweets regarding the loss from those that admired Brockie, and a UTG interview with Oderus himself from 2010 after the jump.
If you ever had the opportunity to witness GWAR live, you can certainly agree that the experience is far more than just another concert. The effort and theatrics that go into a GWAR show are second to none and uniquely impressive in every way. I will never regret the sinus infection, stained skin, ruined clothing, sprained ankle, and bloody nose that I received while watching GWAR do what they do best in 2007.
The idea of Slayer protesting Westboro church dudes funeral makes about as much sense as the opposite. Hate begets hate, morons. #publicity
— Oderus Urungus (@TheRealOderus) March 22, 2014
Wait. Is Oderus Urungus really dead…? Hoping this isn't true. The world would be a dimmer place without Gwar in it. http://t.co/EpHt4UI9dR
— Simon Barrett (@Simon_Barrett) March 24, 2014
I'm shocked, sad and dont know how to process this. @TheRealOderus was one of my favorite human beings to ever live. RIP David Brockie #GWAR
— Mark Gonzales (@themarkgonzales) March 24, 2014
I got a very sad call tonight from my buddy Chris Bopst, who was one of the original members of GWAR- my frie… http://t.co/Xyv0JY3RAm
— D. Randall Blythe (@lambvox) March 24, 2014
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