The Jane’s Addiction concert in Boston was cut short on Friday when lead singer Perry Farrell struck guitarist Dave Navarro during a performance.
Video footage from the show showed Farrell becoming agitated while they played “Ocean Size.” He approached Navarro and shoved him, continuing to yell at his bandmate. The situation escalated when Farrell punched Navarro in the shoulder, prompting a crew member to intervene. As Farrell attempted to reach Navarro again, additional crew members and bassist Eric Avery rushed to restrain him and took him backstage. The concert concluded after 11 songs, falling short of the usual setlist length for the current reunion tour.
Reports indicate that tensions had been building since the band’s first tour with its original lineup in 14 years, which kicked off in August. Farrell’s lengthy interactions with the audience had previously frustrated Navarro, and it has been noted that Farrell was consuming red wine during performances. The conflict on stage began during “Mountain Song,” leading to the altercation by “Ocean Size.”
The band has not issued a statement regarding the incident, nor has Avery mentioned it on social media. However, Farrell’s wife, Etty, provided insight into the situation, explaining that mounting frustrations over loud stage volume and Farrell’s tinnitus issues contributed to the confrontation. She shared that there was also a backstage altercation where Avery reportedly put Farrell in a headlock and hit him.
In response to the fight, musician Liam Gallagher commented on social media, criticizing their behavior, while also asserting that he and his brother Noel would remain professional during their own potential reunion tour.
As of now, the Jane’s Addiction tour is expected to continue with a concert on Sunday in Bridgeport, Connecticut, wrapping up in Los Angeles on October 16.