Iced Earth singer Stu Block has announced his departure from the group. The decision was a long time coming, but Block needed some time to process after seeing his bandmate, Jon Schaffer, participate in the January 6th Capitol Riot. Schaffer is currently facing six federal charges against him. The guitarist’s Demons & Wizards collaborator Hansi Kürsch recently announced his removal from the project. Schaffer remains in police custody since he turned himself in on January 17th. 

Block issued the following statement:

“Hey All,

 Well, there are times and events when you have to take stock and re evaluate your life, work, and trajectory for the future. That being said I have informed Jon and his current management that I must announce my resignation from Iced Earth with immediate effect.

Before I made any personal decision I needed the last few weeks to process the situation as well as respect others in our camp processing the situation. I thank you all very much for respecting this. It’s the best decision  in many ways for my personal/ professional growth going forward. Time to move on, heal and prosper.

Much love and respect to you all. Don’t fret! Stay tuned for some exciting things to come! Time to embark upon a new chapter. Be good to each other.

Stu Block”