AC/DC Founder Malcolm Young Has Dementia, Family Confirm

Malcolm Young is confirmed to be suffering from dementia. The AC/DC founder’s family has verified recent reports as to why he has permanently retired from the band.

In April, the band announced that the 61-year-old Scottish-born Australian rocker would be taking a break to take care of his health. The Rock and Hall of Famers, however, did not elaborate on the nature of his illness.

Fans were hopeful that Young would still be reuniting with the boys, but as it turned out, his break is permanent. The band revealed in September that he would be retiring from the group as they are set to release their first album without him.

“’Rock of Bust’ is the first AC/DC album in the band’s 41 year history without founding member Malcolm Young on the recordings. Earlier this year AC/DC released a statement explaining that due to illness, Malcolm would be taking a break from the band. Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm’s condition, he will not be returning to the band,” a message on their official Web site reads.

“AC/DC will undertake a world tour in support of ‘Rock or Bust’ in 2015. Stevie Young, nephew of founding members Angus and Malcolm Young, plays rhythm guitar on ‘Rock or Bust’ and will accompany the band on tour.”

Following the release of the statement, reports that Young is suffering from dementia have surfaced. Sydney Morning Herald cited a source claiming that he has checked in the Lulworth House in Elizabeth Bay. The facility is known for providing treatment to sufferers of the degenerative disease.

Young’s family has now confirmed that the he is indeed suffering from the disease.

“Malcolm is suffering from dementia and the family thanks you for respecting their privacy,” his family told People magazine in a statement.

Young founded AC/DC in 1973 with his younger brother Angus Young. He played the rhythm guitarist of the band, developing guitar riffs and co-writing materials with Angus.