Bethlehem bassist and founding member Jürgen Bartsch has passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, following a long illness. The news was confirmed by current vocalist Onielar, who shared the following on Instagram (translated from German):
“He died many times…
But death was only temporary.
After serious illness, endurance and great fighting spirit died on 27.08.2025 our beloved friend, valued band founder of Bethlehem –Jürgen Bartsch In deep sorrow and broken hearts In the name of Bethlehem We will never forget you, Jürgen. Rest in peace”
Prophecy Productions founder Martin Koller shared the following:
“My heartfelt condolences go out to Jürgen’s family and friends. I am still in shock, It is hard to deal with this loss and to convey in a few words what a wonderful human being and brilliant artist Jürgen was – as that needs to be left for later: now we are all bound by grief and sorrow. Rest in Peace, Jürgen!”
Formed in 1991 by Bartsch and guitarist Klaus Matton, Bethlehem quickly rose as one of extreme metal’s most ferocious acts. Their 1994 debut Dark Metal helped coin a subgenre, while 1996’s Dictius Te Necare became an overall landmark. Over three decades, Bartsch remained the band’s creative anchor, steering Bethlehem through acclaimed releases including S.U.i.Z.i.D., Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia, and most recently Lebenslinien (2023). Our thoughts go out to Bartsch’s family and friends during this difficult time.
