James Hetfield Performs For First Time Since Rehab

James Hetfield returned to the stage for the first time since entering rehab.

The performance marked Hetfield’s first since September of 2019. Metallica cancelled tour plans late last year to allow Hetfield to re-enter a rehabilitation facility.

The benefit for the USC Eddie Money Cancer Research Fund also featured performances by George Thorogood, Rick Springfield, and Sammy Hagar.

Been thinking about what a special guy Eddie Money was. Francesca & I appreciated your friendship. We will miss you and will be keeping Laurie and their kids in our hearts. R.I.P.
— Papa Het pic.twitter.com/Ikyz2H4axu

— Metallica (@Metallica) September 25, 2019

Hetfield, a longtime friend of Eddie Money who passed away after a battle with esophageal cancer last year, took the opportunity to turn out an acoustic cover of Money’s “Baby Hold On.” 

Metallica doesn’t officially return until September 2020, though the band is scheduled to perform at a benefit for their All Within My Hands foundation on March 28.