Smash Mouth singer Steve Harwell has announced his retirement amid controversy over his concerning and offensive behaviour in viral footage of the band's last gig.
A TikTok user shared a video from Smash Mouth's performance at a beer and wine festival in New York in which Harwell appeared heavily intoxicated, at one point telling the crowd: "I'll kill your whole f**king family, I swear to God" and seemingly performing a Nazi salute on more than one occasion.
Now, according to a statement given to TMZ, Harwell is leaving the band for good.
"Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being a rockstar performing in front of sold-out arenas and have been so fortunate to live out that dream," he said.
"To my bandmates, it's been an honour performing with you all these years and I can't think of anyone else I would have rather gone on this wild journey with."
"To our loyal and amazing fans, thank you, all of this was possible because of you," he continued.
"I've tried so hard to power through my physical and mental health issues, and to play in front of you one last time, but I just wasn't able to."
According to TMZ, 54-year-old Harwell was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy eight years ago, which has led to other medical setbacks including heart failure and a condition that impacts his motor functions, including speech and memory.
He's also battled substance abuse issues over his career.
"I cannot wait to see what Smash Mouth accomplishes next and am looking forward to counting myself as one of the band's newest fans," Harwell's statement concluded.
A representative for the band confirmed the news to the New York Post.
"Steve has been dealing with long-term medical issues over the last 8 years and during his last performance at the Big Sip stage, he suffered numerous symptoms directly linked with his current medical situation," the rep said.
"As of today, Steve will be retiring from Smash Mouth to focus on his physical and mental health."
