Mercyful Fate bassist Timi Hansen has explained why he is unable to perform for their 2020 reunion shows. Unfortunately, the bassist has revealed he is “fighting a fight against cancer.” Hansen is doing everything he can to get better as he’s eager to return to the stage. King Diamond’s wife, Livia Zita-Bendix, shared Hansen’s statement via Facebook, saying:

“There are many questions about why I won’t appear as part of the Mercyful Fate reunion in 2020.

The honest explanation is simply that I am currently fighting a fight against cancer.

But believe me I will fight everything I can to be ready.

It’s my big dream to be on stage again playing the old Mercyful Fate numbers in front of all of you very loyal fans.

If this wasn’t going to happen, I’d like to ask you to take good care of Joey Vera.

I totally agree with King that he is a perfect “Stand in”, so take good care of him ”

We are saddened to hear about this news and hope Hansen has a safe and healthy recovery.