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Jon Bon Jovi Discusses His Strained Relationship with Former Bandmate Richie Sambora

Explore Bon Jovi’s story of friendship, perseverance, and the hope for reunion in Hulu’s docuseries “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story.”
Jon Bon Jovi Discusses His Strained Relationship with Former Bandmate Richie Sambora
Credits: ROSS MARINO/GETTY
By Aatar Ata | Founder and Senior Author of Aatar X
4 min read — March 18, 2024
Get ready, Bon Jovi fans! Hulu’s docuseries “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story” promises a deep dive into the band’s incredible journey. But there might be a familiar face missing from some scenes: Richie Sambora, the band’s former lead guitarist.
While both Jon Bon Jovi and Sambora will appear in the documentary, it seems their paths haven’t crossed in recent times. Bon Jovi acknowledges this in a new interview, revealing they’re simply not in touch anymore.
The reason? It goes back to Sambora’s sudden departure in 2013, right before a tour stop. It was a difficult time for the guitarist, who was juggling the demands of being a single father with personal struggles, including substance abuse.
“There were still feelings there,” Bon Jovi says, reflecting on the situation. “But he wasn’t with the band anymore, and the show had to go on. We couldn’t keep waiting for him.”
Sambora, who joined Bon Jovi in 1983, echoes this sentiment. While he doesn’t regret the decision to prioritize his family, he admits the way he left wasn’t ideal. “The timing wasn’t great,” he says in the docuseries trailer, “I don’t regret leaving, but I regret how I did it.”
Despite the rift, there’s a glimmer of hope. Their 2018 reunion for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction showed there might still be a chance for future collaboration.
“Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story” isn’t just about the music. It’s a story about the bonds of friendship, the challenges of staying together, and the possibility of reconciliation. It’ll be a must-watch for fans who want the full picture of this legendary band.

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