In an announcement that’s sad but not all that surprising, it’s been revealed that Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan died of an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol. Rolling Stone reports that Orange County Deputy Coroner Miitchell Sigal revealed that he suffered “acute polydrug intoxication due to combined effects of Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, Diazepam/Nortiazepam and ethanol.” In english, that means Codeine, Morphine, anxiety medications and alcohol. The Rev also had an enlarged heart, which may have contributed further.
“To all of us who loved Jimmy, the only thing relevant about December 28 is that is the night we lost, too soon, a son, brother, friend and one of the most talented artists in the world,” the band’s manager Larry Jacobson tells Rolling Stone. “Every day, his parents and sisters, and his brothers in Avenged Sevenfold smile at the many memories they have of Jimmy and his fans around the world revel in the musical legacy he left them.”
Sullivan was only 28 when he was found dead in his Huntington Beach, CA home on December 28. Avenged Sevenfold recruited Dream Theater’s Mike Portnoy to drum on their upcoming album, Nightmare. He’ll also tour with the band on the Rockstar Energy Uproar Festival beginning in August.
It’s unfortunate that The Rev, who was a great drummer whether you like A7X or not, met such an untimely death. We’re not gonna get all “just say no” on you, but if you get up to the point where you’re taking three different medications and drinking, get yourself some help.
