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Lydon's Fury: Never Forgive Sex Pistols Bandmates
22 Jul
Summary
- John Lydon will never forgive his former bandmates for the lawsuit.
- He claims the legal battle occurred while his wife was dying.
- Lydon has rejected any possibility of a future Sex Pistols reunion.

John Lydon has stated he will "never forgive" his former Sex Pistols bandmates after a lawsuit he filed to block the use of their music in the biopic 'Pistol' was unsuccessful. Lydon, 70, sued guitarist Steve Jones and drummer Paul Cook in 2021. A court ruled that a 1988 contract only required a majority vote to license music rights. Lydon expressed his deep hurt that this legal battle occurred while he was caring for his wife, Nora Foster, who passed away in 2023. He stated that the substantial legal fees prevented him from spending more time and resources on his wife's care. Lydon found the decision "dumbfounding," questioning how his role as lead singer and songwriter was not deemed relevant to licensing decisions. He fears the project will be "extremely negative" and voiced his dismay at the lack of meaningful consultation before the project's announcement. He also declared that a reunion is "in the minus infinities," citing the "dirt" unloaded upon him during a period of "serious grief." Bassist Glen Matlock has also indicated he would not share a stage with Lydon again. Lydon further claimed that none of his former bandmates reached out following his wife's death, despite his expectation of some connection. The Sex Pistols are currently touring with original members Jones, Cook, and Matlock, featuring Frank Carter on vocals, to mark 50 years of punk, while Lydon tours with his band, Public Image Ltd.