The Misfits has a history filled with legal disputes, internal conflicts, and unexpected reunions. Founding members Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only spent decades battling over royalties, trademarks, and the band’s legacy. Despite years of tension, their reunion in 2016 surprised fans.
The Legal Battle Over the Misfits Name
The initial dispute between Danzig and Only began in the late 1980s. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, Danzig released two albums of unreleased Misfits material, but added overdubs to avoid paying royalties to former members. This led to a legal battle over ownership rights. The lawsuit’s final ruling granted Jerry Only and his brother, Paul Caiafa (Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein), the rights to the Misfits name and logo.
Tensions escalated again in 2014 when Danzig filed another lawsuit against Only over Misfits-branded merchandise profits. Danzig argued that Only had secured exclusive deals with retailers, cutting him out of the band’s earnings. The legal fight unexpectedly led to reunion discussions, as both sides attempted to settle their differences.
The Misfits Reunion: Business or Reconciliation?
The reunion between Danzig and Only was not just a musical decision — it was part of a settlement agreement. Legal documents confirmed that both parties agreed to perform at least 10 shows under the “Original Misfits” name. The first performances took place at Riot Fest 2016 in Denver and Chicago and marked the first time Danzig and Only shared a stage in over 30 years.
The initial agreement was limited, but the band has continued performing together. In 2019, Danzig stated they wouldn’t play many more shows, yet the Original Misfits remained active. Louder reported that they are set to headline Coachella 2025, with performances scheduled for April 12 and April 19.
Legacy of the Feud and Its Impact on the Misfits
The Misfits’ legacy remains strong despite decades of conflict. They pioneered horror punk and influenced bands like Metallica, Rob Zombie, and Marilyn Manson. Their style and sound shaped punk rock and extreme metal.
The post-breakup period saw both members take different paths:
- Danzig formed Samhain and his self-titled band Danzig to explore a heavier sound.
- Jerry Only kept the Misfits brand alive and managed the band’s merchandising empire while releasing new music.
The 2025 Coachella performance shows that, despite past legal fights, the Misfits’ will still be around.
