Widespread Panic guitarist Jimmy Herring will step away from his touring duties with Widespread Panic to undergo another round of treatment for throat cancer. Nick Johnson will fill in for Herring, who “is expected to return in the near future.”
Herring underwent cancer treatment in July 2024, which forced Widespread Panic to cancel several shows as a result. Herring returned to the live stage at Widespread Panic’s February 14, 2025 concert in Atlantic City.
According to the band’s announcement, Herring revealed his need for further treatment ahead of WSP’s recent New Year’s Eve run concerts in Atlanta. The statement noted that Herring’s “prognosis is positive” and confirmed Johnson’s role as a fill-in on guitar.
Johnson’s previous credits include a stint in the late Col. Bruce Hampton’s band with current WSP drummer Duane Trucks.
Included with the announcement was the message below from Widespread Panic:
Dear Friends,
As Widespread Panic moves into 2026, we will be joined by guitarist Nick Johnson. Nick will be lending his talent while Jimmy undergoes another round of treatment to reinforce the healing process after being diagnosed with throat cancer in July of ‘24.
Jimmy, his family, and the band continue to be so grateful for the well-wishing and kindness that have been offered while Jimmy continues to navigate the road to full recovery.
May the coming months bring good news, music, celebration, and occasional miracles.
Shortly before the New Year, Widespread Panic lead guitarist Jimmy Herring informed his bandmates that the illness he had been treated for during the band’s 2024 hiatus had returned and that he would be stepping away from the band temporarily to focus on his health.
There is good news to share. Jimmy’s prognosis is positive, and with the proper care and rest, he is expected to return in the near future.
With the band’s full support and encouragement, Jimmy and his bandmates are confident that Nick Johnson is the right person to step in during this time, having played with Duane in Col Bruce’s band, with Randall Bramblett, and with Ansley and the Hold.
The band shares the following message:
s bring good news, music, celebration, and occasional miracles.
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