Published: September 21, 2026 · 2:36 AM EDT
The singer known for her work with Avantasia, Epica, Kamelot, Exit Eden and Michael Kiske in Kiske/Somerville is facing a serious medical diagnosis as her husband calls on the metal community to send her hope and strength
Amanda Somerville, the American singer and songwriter whose voice has appeared across some of European melodic and symphonic metal's most recognizable projects, has been diagnosed with a malignant and aggressive brain tumor, according to a statement released by her husband, Sander Gommans, guitarist and co-founder of After Forever.
Gommans shared the news on September 19, 2026, explaining that the diagnosis has left the family facing an extremely difficult situation. He expressed gratitude for the assistance they have received from relatives and friends and asked the music community to keep Amanda and their three daughters in their thoughts.
Gommans has not disclosed further medical details about Amanda's treatment or prognosis.
In his message, the guitarist emphasized the importance of support, positive thoughts and prayers, encouraging fans to share the news respectfully and to send strength to Amanda and her family.
Amanda Somerville has built a career extending far beyond any single band. Her work includes collaborations with Avantasia, Epica, Kamelot, After Forever and Ayreon, alongside her own projects and an extensive background in songwriting, vocal production and coaching.
She also formed the melodic metal project Kiske/Somerville with Michael Kiske of Helloween, releasing their self-titled debut in 2010 and City of Heroes in 2015. Their recordings brought together two distinctive voices from different generations of European melodic metal.
Somerville's career also includes Trillium, Aina and Exit Eden. She contributed to Kamelot's Ghost Opera and performed with Avantasia, while her association with Epica included temporarily replacing Simone Simons during the band's 2008 North American tour.
Her connection with After Forever extends beyond her marriage to Gommans. Somerville also contributed vocals and other studio work to the band's recordings, including Invisible Circles, Remagine and After Forever.
For musicians and listeners who have followed Amanda's work, the news reaches far beyond the audience of any individual project. Her recordings with Avantasia, Epica, Kamelot and Michael Kiske have connected her voice with different generations of metal fans.
Gommans ended his statement by asking the community to return some of the love and strength Amanda has given to others throughout her life.
Amanda's music has brought us countless moments of enjoyment over the years, from her work with Avantasia to her memorable recordings alongside Michael Kiske.
Our thoughts are with Amanda, Sander and their three daughters during this difficult time. We send them our love, encouragement and strength, and hope they continue to feel the support of the music community surrounding them.
Watch Kiske/Somerville's official “If I Had A Wish” music video featuring Amanda Somerville and Michael Kiske below:
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
IMAGE CREDIT: Amanda Somerville
