Earlier this year, the future did not look bright for Dave King, the frontman of veteran Celtic punk band Flogging Molly.
The band took to social media on Feb. 5 to announce that it was canceling their touring plans for the year, including the 2025 edition of Flogging Molly’s Salty Dog Cruise.
Dave King’s ‘Very Serious Health’ Battle
“Our fearless leader, the inimitable Dave King, is currently battling a very serious health condition,” the band wrote in a message addressed to the group’s “family, friends and fans.” The band did not specify what the 63-year-old Irish singer’s condition was at the time.
King and his wife, fellow Flogging Molly bandmate Bridget Regan, “ask everyone to respect their privacy at this time,” the band said before vowing to share more information “as we can.”
“Any good thoughts or prayers you can send Dave’s way, he and we would appreciate it. Unfortunately Flogging Molly will be unable to perform shows in 2025,” Flogging Molly’s statement added.
King Suffered a Brain Hemorrhage
It was later revealed that King suffered a brain hemorrhage, underwent two surgeries and spent two weeks in a coma before receiving treatment that eventually allowed him to recover.
With King on the mend, the singer-guitarist and the band recently announced they will hit the high seas again on Flogging Molly’s Salty Dog Cruise. The voyage from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas sets sail on Oct. 25-30, 2026.
Other acts on the cruise, staged by Sixthman, include Bad Religion, Frank Turner & the Sleeping Souls, the Adicts, Lucero and more.
Flogging Molly’s Salty Dog Cruise Returns
In an Instagram post announcing the cruise, the band posted the lineup along with a message. “Hoist the sails and grab your tankards… Flogging Molly’s Salty Dog Cruise is heading back to sea for another unforgettable adventure, featuring TWO ship-exclusive shows with Flogging Molly and a lineup that will fuel five days of absolute mayhem!”
King also added his own note. “Hey Salty Dog 2026 shipmates – Bridget and I are really looking forward to seeing you all, it’s just what the doctor ordered!”
Fans were thrilled to hear that King is on the mend, and the band is back in action.
“Nice to see this announcement! Hopefully this means Dave is in good health!” wrote one.
“I’ve been thinking about Dave frequently over the past six months and was becoming concerned. This is a great relief to see. Happy to know that the band is getting back to their regularly scheduled shenanigans and hope to see you all in the Seattle area again soon! Slán!” another added.
King first gained notice as the singer in 1980s hard-rock band Fastway alongside former Motörhead guitarist “Fast” Eddie Clarke and ex-UFO bassist Pete Way. He formed Flogging Molly in 1993.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Oct 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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