Former Smiths frontman Morrissey has revealed that his ex-bandmate Johnny Marr rejected a “lucrative offer” to reunite the iconic band. The Smiths, known for 80s hits like “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” and “This Charming Man,” disbanded in 1987. Morrissey, 65, shared on his website that in June 2024, AEG Entertainment Group proposed a global tour for 2025 featuring both Morrissey and Marr as ‘The Smiths’. While Morrissey accepted the offer, Marr chose to ignore it. Morrissey is set for a sold-out USA tour in November, while Marr continues touring with New Order.
When questioned about a potential Smiths reunion amidst Oasis’ comeback, Marr responded by sharing an image of Nigel Farage, hinting at their contrasting political views. This echoes past instances where Marr likened Morrissey’s politics to Farage’s and jokingly suggested Farage could join The Smiths as a guitarist. Morrissey, in previous statements, urged Marr to move on and stop using his name for attention. The duo’s stark political differences and personal disputes make a reunion seem improbable.
The band’s split in the 1980s resulted in legal battles over royalties between drummer Mike Joyce, bassist Andy Rourke, and Morrissey and Marr. Morrissey, known in full as Steven Patrick Morrissey, went on to carve out a successful solo career. The Gallagher brothers’ reconciliation for an Oasis tour contrasts with the unlikely rekindling of Marr and Morrissey’s partnership. Marr’s alignment with New Order and Morrissey’s controversial political views are among the key hurdles to a potential Smiths reunion.