Ex-MANOWAR Guitar Legend ROSS “THE BOSS” FRIEDMAN Diagnosed With ALS

Ross “The Boss” Friedman, the founding guitarist of Manowar and The Dictators and a towering figure in both heavy metal and punk history, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

The news was confirmed via a statement from Friedman‘s publicist, outlining a difficult and initially unclear medical journey. According to the release, Friedman began experiencing “seemingly unrelated symptoms,” including weakness in his hands and legs. A series of minor strokes was first believed to be the cause, but efforts to slow the condition through changes in diet, exercise, and physical therapy proved unsuccessful.

“Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, founding member of punk rock legends The Dictators and heavy metal stalwarts Manowar, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS),commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The diagnosis followed several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs. A series of very minor strokes was initially thought to have been the cause, but changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength.”

Now 72, Friedman also shared his own deeply personal message, addressing both the uncertainty ahead and the response from the music community: “It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”

ALS is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and the eventual loss of voluntary muscle control. There is currently no cure.

Friedman‘s impact on heavy music is immeasurable. With Manowar, he recorded six studio albums before departing after 1988’s Kings Of Metal. His guitar work helped define the band’s early, epic sound on landmark releases such as Battle Hymns, Into Glory Ride, and Hail To England — albums that remain foundational texts in traditional and power metal.

Before and beyond Manowar, Friedman‘s work with The Dictators helped bridge punk, hard rock, and attitude-driven songwriting, influencing generations of musicians across genres.