Sam Rivers, the bassist and a founding member of the iconic nu-metal band Limp Bizkit, has died at the age of 48. The band announced his death on Saturday, October 18, 2025, via a social media post. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Rivers played a crucial role in defining Limp Bizkit's sound during their rise to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, the band, fronted by vocalist Fred Durst, gained immense popularity for its fusion of rock and hip-hop.
In a heartfelt tribute, Limp Bizkit described Rivers as "our brother, our bandmate, our heartbeat". The band further wrote, "Sam Rivers wasn't just our bass player—he was pure magic. The pulse beneath every song, the calm in the chaos, the soul in the sound". They acknowledged his irreplaceable contribution, stating, "From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced. His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous".
Rivers was born on September 2, 1977, in Jacksonville, Florida. He began playing music in middle school, initially playing the tuba because his friend and future Limp Bizkit drummer, John Otto, played jazz drums. Rivers contributed to all six of Limp Bizkit's studio albums. He even played guitar on Results May Vary when guitarist Wes Borland had temporarily left the group. Some of the band's most recognizable hits featuring Rivers' basslines include "Break Stuff," "Nookie," "Re-Arranged," and "My Way".
The band's tribute, signed by Fred Durst, Wes Borland, John Otto, and DJ Lethal, reflected on the personal bond they shared with Rivers. "We shared so many moments—wild ones, quiet ones, beautiful ones—and every one of them meant more because Sam was there," they wrote. "He was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of human. A true legend of legends. And his spirit will live forever in every groove, every stage, every memory". The post concluded with a message of love and remembrance: "We love you, Sam. We'll carry you with us, always. Rest easy, brother. Your music never ends".
DJ Lethal also shared a separate statement, requesting fans to "please respect the family's privacy at this moment". He encouraged fans to "give Sam his flowers and play Sam Rivers bass lines all day!". "We are in shock," he added. "Rest in power my brother! You will live on through your music and the lives you helped save with your music, charity work and friendships. We are heartbroken. Enjoy every millisecond of life. It's not guaranteed".
While no cause of death has been officially announced, Rivers had faced health challenges in the past. He had battled liver disease resulting from alcohol abuse and underwent a successful liver transplant.
Rivers initially left Limp Bizkit in 2015, but rejoined in 2018 and remained with the band until his death.
