Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus recently discussed an unusual form of support from bandmate Tom DeLonge during his cancer treatment in an interview with PEOPLE.
Hoppus addressed questions about DeLonge sending inappropriate pictures during his recovery. “Not of his own,” he explained. “These are just things that he found online, but it wasn’t just when I was sick.”
“It still continues now,” Hoppus added. “You never open a text from Tom on a bus or in a public restaurant. If there’s an image attached, you’re going to want to make sure that you have your phone away.”
Hoppus made these revelations while discussing his upcoming memoir. He emphasizes that DeLonge is not portrayed as a villain, describing him as ‘my best friend.’ The band plans to record new material this summer.
This playful exchange demonstrates the enduring friendship between the two musicians. Their bond has remained strong through personal and professional challenges.
Reports from NME revealed Hoppus’s battle with stage 4-A diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. His diagnosis came in April 2021. He underwent intensive chemotherapy before doctors declared him cancer-free in September of that year.
Rolling Stone documented DeLonge’s unwavering support during this period. He regularly checked on Hoppus and maintained their spirits through their signature humor and friendship.
Their relationship strengthened after Hoppus’s recovery. This led to DeLonge’s return to Blink-182 in 2022. Billboard noted this reunion marked the original lineup’s first performance together in nearly a decade.
The band’s upcoming recording sessions this summer represent a new chapter. Their friendship has evolved from sharing inappropriate memes to creating music together once again.
