Bad Wolves Exit Skillet Tour Following Fan Backlash

The groove metal unit Bad Wolves was originally scheduled to provide support for Skillet on an extensive North American trek. The tour was slated to begin on September 30 in Schenectady, N.Y., with dates booked through November 10 in Orlando, Fla. However, following what has been described as "negative online fan discourse," the band has officially dropped off the bill. The primary focus of the backlash was the group's new singer, Sara "Killboy" Skinner, who joined the lineup earlier this year.

Skinner addressed the departure in a candid post on Instagram, suggesting that the decision to leave the tour was influenced by pressure from Skillet’s fanbase. She noted that Skillet’s management and booking agents had allegedly failed to conduct "extensive research" into her background before the tour announcement, a task that was instead taken up by fans of the headlining act. Skinner also claimed that Skillet’s camp had requested she remain silent regarding the situation.

"I have gathered you all here today to inform you that Bad Wolves will no longer be joining Skillet on their upcoming tour. Now, Skillet‘s camp did not want me to say anything, but apparently a statement has to be made. And I’m not someone who’s ever hidden who the fuck I am, so let’s not leave you to speculate, Okay?!"

— Sara "Killboy" Skinner

The "research" conducted by fans reportedly centered on Skinner’s personal life and identity. According to Skinner, the findings circulated by the fanbase labeled her as a "trans OnlyFans bitch." In her public statement, she addressed these claims directly while maintaining a level of ambiguity regarding which specific labels were inaccurate.

"Here’s the the truth. Skillet announced us on their tour and their fans had a field day doing very extensive research that their booking agents and management did not do. Upon their findings, I am a trans OnlyFans bitch. Now unfortunately, only one of those things is true. Have fun finding out and we will see you on the next tour."

— Sara "Killboy" Skinner

The fall run was intended to be the live debut for Skinner as the new frontwoman of Bad Wolves. She was officially announced as the band's third vocalist in June, a reveal that was accompanied by the release of the single "Paint It Red." Skinner follows original vocalist Tommy Vext and his successor D.L. Laskiewicz, the latter of whom exited the band in 2025 to join Falling in Reverse as a bassist. Before taking over lead vocals, Skinner had previously appeared on the Bad Wolves track "It's You (2 Months)" released in 2023.

Founding member and drummer John Boecklin had previously praised Skinner’s arrival as a turning point for the Nu metal and hard rock group, highlighting her versatility and energy.

"When we started looking for the next voice of Bad Wolves, we weren't looking for someone to fill a spot; we were looking for someone who could help push this band into its next chapter. [Skinner] has an incredible voice, undeniable presence and the kind of versatility that allows us to take our songwriting to places we've never gone before. Beyond the talent, she's brought a renewed energy and excitement into this band,"

— John Boecklin

While Skillet has yet to release an official statement regarding the change in the tour lineup, their itinerary remains unchanged. The tour includes a special leg dedicated to celebrating the 20th anniversary of their album Comatose. Escape the Fate is still scheduled to appear as support throughout the trek. Currently, the Bad Wolves website shows no upcoming tour dates, leaving the band's next live appearance unconfirmed. Representatives for Skillet did not respond to requests for comment at press time.