Nikki Sixx has broken his silence on the real reason behind Mick Mars’s exit from Mötley Crüe. In a recent interview with Guitar World, Sixx revealed that the decision wasn’t an easy one, but the band had little choice. Mars, who had been with the band for decades, was ultimately forced out.
For fans, the departure of Mars came as a shock. His gritty guitar work had been a signature part of Mötley Crüe’s sound, and many wondered why things took such a drastic turn. Sixx’s explanation sheds light on the internal struggles that led to this tough decision.
Sixx also hinted at the emotional toll it took on the band. Despite years of friendship and collaboration, circumstances surrounding Mars’s health and performance left the group with no alternative but to make a change.
The Fallout After Mick Mars’s Departure
Mick Mars announced his retirement in 2022, citing ongoing health issues that made it difficult for him to continue performing. Following his exit, John 5 stepped in as his replacement. Nikki Sixx revealed that the band had no choice, saying, “We were forced. Do you want to break up? Do you want to f*ck over Live Nation and Def Leppard? All those tickets, all that planning because one band member is too ill to perform live?”
Mars’s retirement didn’t end smoothly, though. Tensions between him and the band quickly escalated, leading to a lawsuit. Mars accused the group of withholding unpaid royalties, marking the start of a bitter dispute.
Adding fuel to the fire, Mars claimed that Mötley Crüe had pressured him to sell his remaining stake in the band. He also alleged that the group mimed their parts during the 2022 stadium tour, further complicating the fallout from his departure.
Nikki Sixx on Mötley Crüe’s Tough Decision
“We really had to think about it, bro,” Nikki Sixx said, addressing the tough decision to part ways with Mick Mars. He explained that the band had no easy options, saying, “Do you think we wanted to take the grief and end up in a lawsuit? But what were we supposed to do? Go home and mow the lawn? It’s like a football team; if one guy can’t play, you bring in another.”
Despite leaving the touring scene, Mars didn’t step away from music altogether. He quickly shifted his focus to solo work, releasing his debut album, The Other Side of Mars, earlier this year. Meanwhile, Mötley Crüe moved forward with John 5, recording new music of their own.
The band’s latest effort resulted in a three-song EP titled Cancelled. It featured a title track, a single called “Dogs of War,” and a cover of the Beastie Boys’ “Fight for Your Right.” Fans received the new release positively, showing support for the band’s next chapter.