by Mike Portnoy, the renowned drummer, has shared his enthusiastic response to Rush’s announcement of a comeback tour with a new drummer. He posted his reaction on his Instagram.
Portnoy expressed his excitement about the legendary band’s decision to return to the stage with drummer Anika Nilles stepping in to honor the legacy of the late Neil Peart.
“Incredible!!! I am soooo happy for Geddy and Alex!! And so excited for all of us Rush fanatics around the world!” Portnoy said. “Congrats to Anika Nilles who I’m sure will be amazing…she’s awesome!”
He emphasized the significance of the tour as a tribute to the band’s history and their late bandmate.
“This will be a beautiful way to pay tribute to Neil and to honor his and the bands legacy!” he continued. “I can’t wait to see this.”
The announcement marks a significant moment for Rush fans worldwide. The band prepares to return to touring with a new chapter in their storied career.
Portnoy’s reaction reflects the broader excitement surrounding Rush’s return to the stage after more than a decade since their last performance together.
Rush’s official website revealed that the band has officially announced a 2026 reunion tour called the “Fifty Something” Tour. The tour features returning members Geddy Lee on bass, keys, and vocals, and Alex Lifeson on guitar and vocals. The tour will kick off on June 7, 2026, with a show at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. A second night there will follow two days later.
The tour will include multiple shows across seven cities: Los Angeles, Mexico City, Texas, Illinois, New York, Ontario, and Ohio. Rush will perform two career-spanning sets each night, except for Mexico City and the final show in Cleveland, Ohio. Tickets go on sale starting October 17, 2025. Presale options are currently available.
Geddy Lee commented on the reunion. Loudwire reported that after over a decade since their last show together, he and Alex Lifeson have missed playing Rush’s music. They decided to honor their 50+ years of music history and Neil Peart’s irreplaceable legacy by hitting the road together again with Anika Nilles on drums.
Ultimate Classic Rock noted that this marks the first time in the band’s history that someone other than Neil Peart will be performing as Rush’s drummer on a major tour. Anika Nilles, a talented young drummer, will step into this historic role to celebrate Neil Peart’s memory while performing Rush’s extensive catalog. The tour represents both a tribute to the band’s legendary past and a new chapter in their storied career.
