Mike Portnoy, former Dream Theater drummer, has shared an emotional update on Instagram explaining his recent social media absence.
“Sorry I’ve been so quiet lately…honestly, our family is still feeling a bit beat down after the 1,2,3 punch of losing my sister, then my baby Mickey Portnoy, and then my father-in-law all within the last few months,” Portnoy said.
“Melody and Marlene have found a remedy to keep us distracted and keep our spirits up,” he continued. “We’ve added some kittens to the family!”
“First, Melody Portnoy brought home Maizy,” he explained. “Then Marlene Apuzzo Portnoy adopted Minky and followed up with another baby Ragdoll from the same family. And as if adding 3 kitties to the family wasn’t enough, Melody & Marlene decided to also foster a litter of 6 kittens for a few months until they find homes! So yes, the Portnoy house currently has 9 kittens in the house!”
“Honestly, although we’ve always had cats in the family (Mini, Mittens, Magic, Milano…and even ET and Stinky before Melody and Max were born), I’ve always been more of a Dog person,” Portnoy added. “But these little kitties are so adorable and just what we needed to heal our broken hearts.”
The musician’s family currently houses nine kittens as they process their recent losses.
The timing of these personal challenges coincides with a pivotal moment in Portnoy’s career. Blabbermouth reported his return to Dream Theater in 2023, ending a 13-year separation.
Ultimate Metal revealed Portnoy’s involvement in Dream Theater’s 40th Anniversary Tour preparations. The drummer noted the rehearsals have been “incredible how quick and seamless we have jumped right back in.”
Loudwire confirmed the band’s upcoming album ‘Parasomnia’ will release on February 7, 2025. The band released two singles, ‘Night Terror’ and ‘A Broken Man,’ in December 2024.
Portnoy makes his home in Upper Saucon Township, Pennsylvania. He lives there with his wife Marlene and their two adult children, Melody Ruthandrea and Max John.
