Family of AC/DC’s Malcolm Young confirm he has dementia

Last week, a report by the Sydney Morning Herald said that AC/DC founding guitarist Malcolm Young is suffering from dementia and has been moved into a full-time care nursing home facility in Sydney.

This news followed the band announcing his departure, saying in a statement: “Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm's condition, he will not be returning to the band. AC/DC will undertake a world tour in support of 'Rock or Bust' in 2015. Stevie Young, nephew of founding members Angus and Malcolm Young, plays rhythm guitar on 'Rock Or Bust' and will accompany the band on tour.”

Now, Young’s family have confirmed the sad news. “Malcolm is suffering from dementia and the family thanks you for respecting their privacy,” his family said in a statement to People. 

Earlier this year, when AC/DC were more optimistic about Young’s condition, frontman Brian Johnson had told Classic Rock (via Rolling Stone): “We miss Malcolm, obviously. He's a fighter. He's in [the] hospital, but he's a fighter. We've got our fingers crossed that he'll get strong again…. Stevie, Malcolm's nephew, was magnificent, but when you're recording with this thing hanging over you and your work mate isn't well, it's difficult. But I'm sure [Malcolm] was rooting for us.”

AC/DC was co-founded by Malcolm and his brother, Angus Young, in 1973. The band will release their new album, Rock Or Bust, this December.