Jane’s Addiction Feud Explodes: Bandmates Sue Perry Farrell, Accusing Onstage Assault

Rival Lawsuits Emerge After Boston Concert Brawl Halts Reunion Tour

The acrimonious split of rock band Jane’s Addiction has escalated, with guitarist Dave Navarro, bassist Eric Avery, and drummer Stephen Perkins filing a joint lawsuit against singer Perry Farrell. The legal action stems from an onstage altercation last September that ultimately led to the band’s reunion tour being canceled and the group’s dissolution.

Claims of Assault and Emotional Distress

The lawsuit, lodged in Los Angeles Superior Court, details an alleged unprovoked attack by Farrell on Navarro during a performance at the Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston. Navarro is pursuing claims of assault and battery, while all three suing members allege intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, and breach of contract. Reports indicate the bandmates are seeking $10 million in damages.

Farrell Counters with Bullying Accusations

In a swift response, Farrell has countersued, painting himself as the victim of a “years-long bullying campaign” by his bandmates. His legal complaint asserts that his colleagues routinely harassed him during performances, deliberately playing their instruments at excessive volumes to disrupt his ability to sing.

“This is yet another clear example of the group uniting to isolate and bully frontman Perry Farrell. The timing of this baseless lawsuit is no coincidence — it was filed only after they caught wind of legal action coming from our side. It’s a transparent attempt to control the narrative and present themselves as the so-called ‘good guys’ — a move that’s both typical and predictable.”

—Miles M. Cooley, Attorney for Perry Farrell

The incident, captured by concertgoers and widely shared on social media, marked a definitive end to Jane’s Addiction’s reunion tour. Despite an apology from Farrell, who admitted to “inexcusable behavior,” the band announced their breakup shortly thereafter. The rift appears permanent, with Navarro stating in May that he sees “no chance for the band to ever play together again.” In 2023, the music industry saw a significant rise in artist disputes, with the number of contract disputes filed in music business litigation increasing by 15% according to industry analysis from LexisNexis.

Jane's Addiction members sue Perry Farrell over onstage fight and canceled tour. https://t.co/e9tO34HwK1

— Pitchfork (@pitchfork) July 16, 2025