Rick Allen Reflects on Trauma from 2023 Assault

Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen continues to struggle with the psychological aftermath of being violently assaulted outside a Florida hotel in March 2023. In recent interviews, Allen explained that the trauma from the attack has led him to scale back on side projects, including exhibiting his art on the Monsters of Rock cruise, and that crowded environments now make him uncomfortable. The assault, carried out by a 19-year-old who was later arrested and charged, left Allen with head injuries and ongoing anxiety, prompting him to focus more on recovery at home. Despite these ongoing challenges, Allen remains committed to his main role in Def Leppard, with the band planning a North American tour and festival appearances. Allen has expressed hope that, with time, he will be able to return to normalcy and resume his creative pursuits. He credits his bandmates and time at home for supporting his ongoing recovery.