Perry Bamonte, longtime guitarist and keyboardist for The Cure, has passed away at 65 after a short illness at home over Christmas, the band confirmed December 26, 2025. Known as “Teddy,” the quiet creative force shaped iconic albums like Wish and Bloodflowers, leaving goth rock mourning a vital architect of their sound.
Official Statement: “Vital Part of The Cure Story”
The band’s website posted: “Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, ‘Teddy’ was a warm hearted and vital part of The Cure story.” Bamonte passed peacefully at home; no further illness details released as family grieves privately.
He rejoined in 2022 for 90 shows including the triumphant Songs of a Lost World tour, with his final performance November 1, 2024 at London’s O2 Arena. “He will be very greatly missed,” the statement concluded.
From Roadie to Rock Hall: 1984-2024 Journey
Bamonte joined The Cure’s road crew 1984-1989 before replacing Roger O’Donnell in 1990, playing guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards on Wish (1992), Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), and self-titled 2004 album. Hits like “Friday I’m in Love” and “High” feature his signature layers.
Over 500 shows across 14 years ended 2005, but 2019 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction as essential member led to 2022 reunion. Departed Love Amongst Ruin (with ex-Placebo drummer) to return home.
Key Contributions: Friday I’m In Love & Beyond
Bamonte’s six-string bass defined Wish’s shimmering guitars; keyboards anchored Bloodflowers’ atmospheric depths. Live albums Paris and Show (both 1993) capture his stage synergy with Robert Smith. Fans hail his “group mind” evolution of The Cure’s sound.
Post-Cure, illustrated for Fly Culture magazine and fly fished passionately. 2024’s affordable ticket tour (after Ticketmaster backlash) showcased his renewed fire.
Robert Smith, Fans Mourn “Teddy”
Robert Smith yet to speak publicly; Reddit’s r/TheCure floods with setlist memories. Consequence, Loudwire remember his “hugely creative” arc. Love Amongst Ruin bandmates share private grief.
Global headlines echo band’s “enormous sadness.” Songs of a Lost World Blu-ray (filmed with Bamonte) releases soon, immortalizing final bows.
Why Perry Bamonte Mattered
From roadie to Rock Hall, Bamonte embodied The Cure’s evolution—quiet genius amplifying Smith’s vision across decades. His return proved family transcends lineups.
Rest easy, Teddy. Friday I’m in Love streams eternal—your riffs echo forever. Deepest sympathies to family, Cure faithful worldwide.
