The Split and Rumors of MCR's Reunion: A Comprehensive Guide
My Chemical Romance (MCR) fans have long been fascinated by the band's history, including their splits and potential reunions. While MCR broke up temporarily in 2013 due to personal reasons, most recently in 2019 they announced a new era with essentially the same members returning. Despite the band's current tours and merch releases, the idea of a reunion continues to circulate. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the split, discuss the ongoing rumors, and analyze the band members' current activities and future prospects.
Why MCR Split in 2013
MCR's 2013 split was rooted in personal struggles and the challenge of balancing band life with family commitments. Lead singer Gerard Way revealed the reasons for the split in an interview with MTV News. According to Way, he had relapsed into alcohol abuse, a form of self-medicating that led to a deep depression. He stated, 'I relapsed not into drugs but booze. I was self-medicating again to get through and I'd forgotten how miserable that made me. It took me to the dark place again.'
Way further emphasized, 'There was more at stake this time. I started to face the hypothetical reality of Bandit [his daughter] not having a father. I started taking that seriously thinking, ‘I want her to have a dad. A guy that's present. Because one way or another—either by death or boy asylum—she's gonna be fatherless if I keep this up.’
The decision to break up the band at that moment was difficult but necessary. Way concluded, 'Guess what he chose? He chose to break up the band to save his well-being and make sure that he was a part of his child's life.'
Rumors of MCR's 2019 Reunion
As the years went by, fans began to speculate about the possibility of MCR's return. The band's announcement of a new merch line called 'You Wear Me Out' in 2019 only fueled these rumors. Despite multiple theories suggesting they would reunite the following year, none materialized. Frank Iero, drummer and one of MCR's core members, cryptically commented, 'I survived a bus accident so anything’s possible.' Gerard Way also left the door open by saying, 'I wouldn’t count a reunion out.'
The band released a collection of previously unreleased tracks, focusing on a more nostalgic and worn-out sound. This release sparked further speculation that the band was hinting at their potential return. Furthermore, artifacts like the last song they ever released, 'Fake Your Death,' remind fans of the band's final moments together.
Current Activities of MCR Band Members
Since the 2013 split, the MCR members have been engaged in various solo projects and personal pursuits. Frank Iero is the current frontman of the band Frank Iero and the Future Violents, and he is playing live shows. Gerard Way has been concentrating on his comic books, with some of his work published by DC Comics. He has also ventured into the world of Netflix with his show 'Titans.' Ray Toro, the co-songwriter and guitarist, and Mikey Quinn, the bassist, have both focused on their families; Ray is expecting his second child, and Mikey enjoys spending time with his family.
Should MCR Come Back?
While many fans eagerly await a MCR reunion, the band's members haven't officially addressed this question. As of now, Gerard Way's stance seems clear: 'I think that they should come back if they want, not if we want. MCR lives on through the music made when they were together.'
Despite the uncertainty and speculation, fans can continue to enjoy the music MCR has already produced. Regardless of whether the band reunites, their most impactful and memorable moments will remain etched in the hearts of fans around the world.