by Jon Schaffer recently addressed the possibility of reuniting Iced Earth. He shared his thoughts on the matter during an appearance on Podcast Of The Wicked.
The Iced Earth founder discussed his current stance on reforming the band. He revealed that he has received substantial financial offers to make it happen.
Schaffer provided a clear response about his priorities when asked if there are any plans for him to get Iced Earth back together.
“Look, the short answer is no, not anytime soon,” Schaffer said. “I just want the fans to know that this has been a lot, and I’ve had great offers, great financial offers [to bring Iced Earth back], so if it was about chasing money, but that’s a checkers move, first of all.”
The musician emphasized his commitment to quality over financial incentives.
“And it wouldn’t be good for me or the band or the crew or the fans, because I need to do this because I love it, and whatever happens needs to happen and be truly inspired and not a ‘good’ Iced Earth record or a ‘good’ show or whatever; it’s gotta be gold,” he continued. “And that’s gonna take some time.”
Schaffer’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about the band’s future following significant changes in recent years.
The band’s current hiatus stems from events that dramatically altered its trajectory. Heaven’s Metal Magazine reported that the end of Iced Earth as a functioning band followed Schaffer’s arrest for involvement in the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. This significantly impacted the band’s status and activities.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the band’s future, there appears to be interest from former members in a potential reunion. Blabbermouth noted that former Iced Earth vocalist Matt Barlow has expressed openness to returning to the band if Schaffer decides to relaunch it.
“I am not closed to the idea,” Barlow stated when discussing a possible return to Iced Earth. However, he made clear that such a reunion would be entirely up to Schaffer. He described the band as “a hundred percent” Schaffer’s decision.
The financial offers Schaffer mentioned reflect the continued commercial appeal of the Iced Earth brand. Blabbermouth confirmed that Schaffer has received “great financial offers” to revive the band. He remains focused on artistic integrity rather than monetary considerations.
Schaffer’s remarks suggest that while a reunion remains possible in the future, fans will need to wait for the right creative circumstances to align.
