Despite the rumors and speculation, Jon Bon Jovi is not dead.
Rumors that the 63-year-old legend died first circulated online after it was confirmed that Ioannis Vasilopoulos, another legend associated with the band, died on April 7.
“We announce with heavy hearts the passing of Ioannis, our beloved artist, husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, who has left us for the great beyond,” the family confirmed through his obituary online. “We find comfort knowing that Ioannis is reunited with his father, mother and other beloved family and friends. The outpouring of love for Ioannis and his work is also a great comfort.”
Vasilopoulos, who died at age 66, was a legendary artist and designer best known designing some of the band’s most iconic album cover art.
According to his obituary, Vasilopoulos “was influenced by American comic books, animation, fantasy art, and rock music. The music led to his admiration of album cover art, specifically Roger Dean known for his work with the band YES and the many album covers of designer Storm Thorgerson (Hipgnosis). The inspiration led Ioannis to design and paint many covers.”
Along with is work with Bon Jovi, Vasilopoulos worked with other artists like Deep Purple, Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Michael Bolton among other artists.
While many fans let out a sigh of relief to know Jon Bon Jovi is still alive, one user on X (formerly known as Twitter) paid tribute to Vasilopoulos’ incredible work.
“I feel bad for Ioannis Vasilopoulos,” the user wrote on X. “Because they basically announced his death as Bon Jovi dying and then people find out it’s not Bon Jovi and go ‘oh, good it’s not him.’ “
