Bret Michaels’ 600% Fee Demand Halts Poison Nix Tour

Plans for the highly anticipated Poison tour in 2026 have been scrapped following a significant pay dispute among band members. Frontman Bret Michaels reportedly requested a staggering 600% increase in compensation compared to his bandmates, leading to the dissolution of the tour plans. Though there was no official announcement, the band had expressed intentions to celebrate their 40th anniversary with a limited concert series.

Bret Michaels’ Fee Demand Impacts 2026 Tour

In September 2024, Michaels indicated the excitement surrounding a potential reunion, stating it would be “the perfect 40th anniversary tour.” He envisioned a tour featuring 40 exclusive shows that would allow them to perform their classic hits. However, discussions among band members did not yield a fruitful outcome.

Band Dynamics and Compensation Issues

Drummer Rikki Rockett elaborated on the situation in an interview with Page Six, confirming that the remaining members—C.C. DeVille and Bobby Dall—were ready to tour. Unfortunately, they felt sidelined by Michaels’ financial demands, which he described as seeking “the lion’s share” of profits. Rockett stated, “It’s like $6 to every one of our dollars. You just can’t work that way.”

Despite the disappointment, Rockett expressed no ill feelings towards Michaels, appreciating the experiences that being in the band has brought him. “Every member of this band has given me so much privilege in life,” he remarked, comparing the situation to familial disagreements rather than outright conflict.

Future Prospects and Touring Plans

While Poison’s 2026 tour is off the table, Michaels plans to pursue several solo performances that year. Concurrently, Rockett will embark on a tour with his side project, Rockett Mafia.

Looking ahead, Rockett humorously suggested the possibility of a “41st anniversary tour” in 2027, reflecting on the unpredictability of band decisions. The dynamics within Poison remain delicate, but fans continue to hope for a resolution that would unite the band once again.