Lou Gramm Shares Thoughts on Kelly Hansen’s Exit and Foreigner’s Next Chapter With Luis Maldonado

After nearly 20 years fronting the iconic rock band Foreigner, Kelly Hansen took his final bow on Saturday, October 11, during a performance in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Hansen officially announced his departure earlier this year during the finale of The Voice Season 27, signaling the end of a significant era for the band.

The singer first joined Foreigner in 2005 and has since been a defining voice of the group’s modern era. Now stepping into the lead vocalist role is guitarist and backing vocalist Luis Maldonado, who has been part of the band since 2021.

Why Hansen Stepped Away: Family First

Although there was some public speculation about his reasons for leaving, Hansen clarified his motivations in a recent interview with People. He explained that the COVID-19 pandemic gave him time to reflect on his personal life and priorities.

“I started to have the sense of being home,” Hansen said. “This was something I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I realized I had enough stability—both financially and emotionally—to consider a different path.”

Hansen, who has been married to his wife Anna since 2020, said the pause during the pandemic made him reevaluate what mattered most. After nearly 50 years in the music business, he felt it was time to step away and embrace life off the road.

Earlier this year, original Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm also spoke about Hansen’s decision in an interview with American Songwriter. Gramm revealed that Hansen had confided in him about his desire to dedicate more time to a growing relationship and family life.

“He fell in love with a woman who has two kids, and he wants to be there for them,” Gramm shared. “They bought a house together, and he’s ready to focus on that part of his life. I wish him the best.”

Lou Gramm on the New Era and Maldonado’s Role

As the band transitions to its next chapter, Lou Gramm had praise for Maldonado, Foreigner’s new frontman. Though best known as a guitarist, Maldonado has now taken center stage, and Gramm is optimistic about the change.

“It’s just another transition,” said the 75-year-old Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. “Luis has a strong voice and he’s a fantastic lead guitarist. Plus, he’s a really grounded guy.”

Gramm has shared the stage with Maldonado several times in 2025 during special guest appearances and said the experience has been rewarding. “The band sounds excellent, and Luis sings his tail off,” he added.

Gramm’s Final Tour and Solo Album Plans

Looking ahead, Gramm is set to rejoin Foreigner this December for a special run of eight shows celebrating the deluxe reissue of the band’s 1981 album 4. The short tour kicks off on December 3 in Port Chester, New York, and concludes on December 13 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Gramm also revealed that he’s working on a new solo album titled Released, due out in 2026. After supporting the album with a final tour, the legendary singer says he plans to retire from the stage for good.