Introduction
Rick Parfitt, the longtime guitarist for the legendary British rock band Status Quo, has passed away at the age of 68. He died in a hospital in Marbella, Spain, on Christmas Eve after suffering from a severe infection, according to a statement released by his family and manager.
Parfitt had been hospitalized since Thursday, following complications from a shoulder injury sustained in an earlier fall. The family’s statement expressed profound grief, saying in part: “We are truly devastated to have to announce that Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt has passed away at lunchtime today. He died in hospital in Marbella, Spain as a result of a severe infection, having been admitted to hospital on Thursday evening.”
Rick Parfitt had stepped away from touring with Status Quo earlier in the year after suffering a heart attack. He had long battled health issues, including a history of heart problems and struggles with alcohol and drugs. His health took a particularly serious turn in recent years—at one point, his manager revealed that Parfitt had technically “died” for several minutes during a previous health emergency, which left lasting effects on him both physically and mentally.
Despite these setbacks, Parfitt remained passionate about music. At the time of his passing, he had been working on both an autobiography and plans for a solo career, eager to express his story in a new chapter beyond Status Quo.
Formed in the 1960s, Status Quo became one of the most enduring acts in British rock history, known for their distinctive sound and unforgettable hits like Rockin’ All Over the World. Parfitt’s creative partnership with fellow guitarist Francis Rossi spanned over 50 years, shaping the band’s legacy across generations.
A photo from around 1968 captures the classic lineup: Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi on guitars, Alan Lancaster on bass, Roy Lynes on keyboard, and John Coghlan on drums. Their chemistry was as much about friendship and resilience as it was about music.
Rick Parfitt leaves behind his wife, Lyndsay, and their twins, Tommy and Lily, as well as his adult children, Rick Jr. and Harry. After the news of his father’s death, Rick Jr. posted on Twitter, writing that he “loved him hugely.” Fans around the world shared in that heartbreak, with many mourning the loss of yet another beloved artist in a year already marked by notable departures.
Tributes poured in across social media, with many remembering Parfitt as a cornerstone of classic rock and a force of energy onstage. His death was not only a personal loss to his family and bandmates but also a moment of collective sorrow for fans who had followed his journey for decades.
Read the official family and band statement below:
Rick Parfitt may be gone, but his music and spirit remain very much alive through the songs, memories, and the indelible mark he left on rock and roll.
Status Quo – Whatever You Want – Rhythm Guitar Performance by Rick Parfitt