The rock band Poison has reportedly abandoned plans for a 40th-anniversary tour. The band's highly anticipated reunion tour, meant to celebrate four decades since their formation, has been called off, primarily due to a financial disagreement involving frontman Bret Michaels.
Drummer Rikki Rockett confirmed to Page Six that the band had received a substantial offer for the tour, which he, C.C. DeVille, and Bobby Dall were prepared to accept. However, Michaels' demand for a significantly larger share of the earnings—reportedly 600 percent more than each of his bandmates—led to the collapse of negotiations. Rockett expressed his frustration, stating that while he loves performing, he was unwilling to work hard simply to enrich one member disproportionately. Despite the financial dispute, Rockett emphasized that relationships within the band remain amicable, describing the situation as one of frustration rather than animosity.
This cancellation comes after Michaels had previously hinted at a possible reunion in a 2024 Facebook post, suggesting 2026 would be an ideal time to commemorate the release of their album, Look What the Cat Dragged In. Although nothing was finalized, fans eagerly awaited an official announcement. Rockett had earlier indicated in a podcast that the tour was unlikely to proceed given the advanced timeline required for such a large-scale event. The band, which originated in Pennsylvania in 1983, achieved significant success with hits like "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," "Talk Dirty to Me," and "Something to Believe In." Rockett remains optimistic that the financial hurdles can be resolved, perhaps paving the way for a "41st-anniversary tour" next year, humorously acknowledging the band's penchant for unexpected turns.
The incident highlights the common challenges bands face regarding financial equity and creative control, reminding us that even successful partnerships require mutual respect and fair distribution. While the current setback is disappointing for fans, the resilience of artists often leads to future collaborations, proving that passion for music can ultimately overcome temporary obstacles, fostering hope for a harmonious return.