Iconic ’70s Rocker Addresses Bandmate’s Maternity Leave Amid 2026 Tour
Iconic ’70s Rocker Addresses Bandmate’s Maternity Leave Amid 2026 Tour
Madz DizonFri, April 3, 2026 at 3:56 AM UTC
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Legendary shock rocker Alice Cooper has officially addressed a major lineup change ahead of his 2026 tour, confirming that longtime guitarist Nita Strauss will take a temporary break as she prepares to welcome her first child.
In her place, the rock icon has introduced 22-year-old British guitarist Anna Cara, who is set to join the band on stage starting this April.
Cooper shared the update alongside a performance photo, reassuring fans that the transition is in good hands while celebrating Strauss’ milestone moment. The announcement comes just as the band gears up for a packed schedule of shows across the United States and Europe.
Chuck Garric, Alice Cooper, and Nita Strauss perform at The Kia Forum on October 19, 2025 in Inglewood, California. Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
“Nita found a brilliant British female guitarist to fill in for her while she is on maternity leave,” Cooper said. “Anna Cara is a beautiful, dynamic shredder in the vein of Nita but with a style of her own. She will fit in with our gang perfectly while Nita is away and we can’t wait for the sick things to meet her. Welcome to the show, Anna!”
Strauss, who has been part of Cooper’s touring band for over a decade, earlier confirmed she would step away temporarily to focus on her growing family. Despite her absence, she expressed strong confidence in her replacement.
“When I was asked in an interview who I thought was the best up-and-coming guitarist, I had no hesitation in answering ‘Anna Cara,’” Strauss said. “Anna’s precision and soulful, emotional playing will make her an amazing asset to the Cooper tour!”
Cara, a rising talent from Newcastle, England, is already making waves in the rock scene. She has previously worked with artists like Marc Storace and Tommy Henriksen, and built a strong online following through her guitar performances.
Her debut with Cooper will take place during the Welcome To Our Nightmare shows in Las Vegas from April 2 to April 4. These performances are part of a special collaboration with illusionist Criss Angel at Planet Hollywood.
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Following the Las Vegas residency, Cara will continue with the band for the Alice’s Attic U.S. tour from April 14 through May 9. Additional Las Vegas dates are scheduled for late May, followed by a European leg running from June 13 to July 12.
Cara shared her excitement about joining the legendary rocker’s band, calling the opportunity deeply personal.
“This is like a dream come true, to join Alice and his great band,” Cara said. “Back when I started playing guitar at 14 I was watching Alice Cooper live shows on YouTube dreaming of joining one day! Nita Strauss is a tough act to follow, and she’s been so encouraging to me this past month, so I am looking forward to showing everyone who I am and what I can do.”
Strauss’ temporary departure marks a significant moment for the band, given her long-standing role and strong connection with fans. She described her time with Cooper as unforgettable while looking ahead to returning after her maternity leave.
“Working with Alice for 12 years has been the experience of a lifetime and I look forward to seeing you all back on the road (with a +1 along for the ride!)” Strauss said. “Until that time comes, I know that the show is in good hands and the fans are in for a treat!”
Cooper’s current touring lineup remains intact aside from the temporary guitar switch, with Cara stepping into a role that demands both technical skill and stage presence. Early reactions suggest fans are eager to see how she brings her own style to the band’s signature sound.
With a full tour schedule ahead and a new guitarist ready to prove herself, Cooper’s 2026 run continues to build momentum, even as it marks a personal milestone for one of its key members.
Related: Iconic '70s Rock Band Returns to Stage After Unexpected Hospitalization
This story was originally published by Parade on Apr 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
