Tommy Lee addressed Motley Crue’s split with guitarist Mick Mars during an appearance on “The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan.”
The drummer joined the show to discuss topics including Motley Crue’s 2014 “cessation of touring” agreement, the band’s comeback after the 2019 release of their biopic “The Dirt” and more.
In the second half of the interview, Corgan asked Lee about the lawsuit Mars filed against the band following his departure in late 2022. The lawsuit has since been settled. Corgan asked if Lee wanted to comment on the situation.
“For me, that whole thing was awkward and really hurtful to the point where people are saying untrue things,” Lee said. “I was like, ‘God, this sucks.’ I’m not into that kind of stuff.”
Lee praised Mars, saying, “There is only one Mick and he’s an incredible player. It saddens me, just on a personal level for him, that this spine disease slowly started changing his shape.”
Lee said Mars endured a lot of pain on tour, even more than a decade ago, and that the band witnessed his struggles. Mars eventually approached the band and said he could no longer tour because he did not feel he could continue.
“I always try to put myself in Mick’s shoes and I got nothing but love for that guy — nothing but love,” Lee said. “I just wish it didn’t get so… and unfortunately that’s just the way things go when people are threatened or hurt. They fight back. But it’s all good.”
Lee described some difficulties performing with Mars, recalling a moment when he counted down the song “Live Wire” and Mars played “Wild Side” instead. Lee said John 5, who replaced Mars after his retirement in 2022, brought needed energy to the band.
Motley Crue’s next show is scheduled for July 31 in Holmdel, New Jersey. Tour dates and ticket information are available on the band’s website.