At 72 years old, rock legend Ross Friedman, known as “The Boss,” recently shared his battle with ALS. The guitarist, a co-founder of the bands the Dictators and Manowar, received a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis after experiencing various symptoms over several months.
Facing an uncertain future without his guitar, Friedman expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from loved ones and fans. In a statement made on a Monday in early February, Friedman said, “It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”
Despite initially attributing his symptoms to minor strokes, Friedman ultimately learned of his ALS diagnosis. Changes in his lifestyle did not slow the progression of the disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control.
Friedman co-founded the Dictators in 1972 in New York City, before forming Manowar with Joey DeMaio in 1980. Over the years, he released several albums and was inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame in 2017. Prior to revealing his diagnosis, Friedman was still active in the music scene, as demonstrated in a May 2025 Instagram post detailing his tour experiences.
In an industry where talent and resilience intersect, Friedman’s openness about his health struggles showcases the challenges faced by musicians even after achieving great success. Despite his diagnosis, Friedman’s influence on rock and metal music remains undeniable, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and the legions of fans who continue to support him.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.