Wolf Hoffmann Explains His Decision to Retire from Accept Due to Heavy Touring Schedule; Will Miss 50th Anniversary Celebration…

Wolf Hoffmann Explains His Decision to Retire from Accept Due to Heavy Touring Schedule; Will Miss 50th Anniversary Celebration

 

 

Legendary guitarist and founding member of the German heavy metal band Accept, Wolf Hoffmann, has officially announced his decision to step away from the group. Citing the relentless demands of the current touring schedule and the physical toll it has taken on him, Hoffmann has decided not to participate in the band’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations.

In a recent interview, Hoffmann opened up about the factors behind his departure, expressing a mixture of regret and relief. “This wasn’t an easy decision,” he admitted. “Accept has been my life for nearly five decades. But the reality is, the workload this year has been heavier than ever, and it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with the intensity.”

The band, known for its high-energy performances and relentless touring, has maintained a packed schedule in 2025, celebrating their milestone year with a global tour. While the fans have eagerly awaited the 50th anniversary festivities, Hoffmann’s absence will certainly leave a noticeable gap in the lineup.

“The pressure to perform night after night, city after city, is no joke,” Hoffmann explained. “At some point, you have to listen to your body and your mind. I’ve given everything to this band, and I feel it’s time to step back and focus on my health and personal life.”

Accept rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Balls to the Wall,” “Fast as a Shark,” and “Metal Heart,” helping to shape the sound of European heavy metal. Hoffmann’s signature guitar style and compositional contributions have long been a defining element of the band’s identity.

Band members and fans alike have reacted with both understanding and sadness to the news. Lead vocalist Mark Tornillo expressed his gratitude for Hoffmann’s years of dedication. “Wolf is a legend and will always be part of Accept’s legacy. We’re going to miss him on stage, but we fully support his decision to take care of himself.”

Although Hoffmann won’t be present for the 50th anniversary shows, he hasn’t completely ruled out future involvement with the band. “I’m not saying goodbye forever,” he clarified. “But for now, I need a break. I’ll always be proud of what we’ve built together, and I’ll always be part of the Accept family in spirit.”

The band plans to continue with the anniversary tour as scheduled, with a temporary replacement filling Hoffmann’s role on guitar. Fans around the world are encouraged to show their support for both the band and Hoffmann as Accept enters this new chapter.

While his absence will surely be felt, Hoffmann’s legacy remains unshakable. For nearly 50 years, he has stood as one of the most influential guitarists in metal, and his contributions to the genre will continue to inspire generations to come.