Riot V has announced the departure of frontman Todd Michael Hall, who had been with the band since 2013. Italian vocalist Valentino Francavilla of White Skull steps in as a temporary replacement for the band’s upcoming 2026 tour dates.
Todd broke the news on social media: “I am stepping down as the lead singer of Riot V. Being a member of Riot V has made many of my rock & roll dreams come true. While the opportunity has been life-changing, it has meant that I have not been able to prioritize other aspects of my life. After 13 years, 3 albums, and over 200 live shows, I need to take a break to focus more on my wife, my family, and my family business.”
“Regardless of what my future holds, I wish the guys the best of luck. I am grateful to Donnie [Riot V bassist Don Van Stavern] and Mike [Flyntz, Riot V guitarist] for the opportunity to be a small part of the Riot legacy. I deeply appreciate the friendship of Donnie, Mike, Frank [Gilchriest, Riot V drummer], Nick [Lee, Riot V guitarist], and Jonathan [Reinheimer, Riot V guitarist]. I am also very proud of the music we made and thankful to everyone who promoted and supported us.”
“I am blessed to have met so many wonderful people along the way. God bless everyone around the world who welcomed me warmly, cheered loudly, and sang along. You have brought great joy into my life. Thank you.”
The band followed with its own statement, confirming the split and introducing Valentino: “ATTENTION METAL WARRIORS! We have important news for Riot‘s upcoming 2026 tour dates — it seems like a lot of bands are going through this with members!”
“Unfortunately, singer Todd Hall has informed us he cannot perform with the band anymore at this point because of family issues. We wish the best for him and thank him for his years in the band, and who knows what the future might hold! In the great tradition of the band and in Mark Reale‘s beliefs and words, ‘the show must go on’ for the fans! Mike and Don have been a part of the band for over 40 years, and this is not the first time we have had to deal with this situation, and on such short notice. We have searched for fill-ins for the 2026 tour runs, and luckily, we have recruited Italian guitar virtuoso/singer Valentino Francavilla! Valè has been a longtime fan of the band and performed with us in Japan, and loves this opportunity to help out one of his favorite bands, belting out the highs and a little guitar!”
“As for the long-term, we will keep all you Metal Soldiers posted for updates on fill-ins and a permanent situation! We are currently working on our 18th record, so stay tuned. Warriors, we will never surrender! Thank you and see you soon! Shine On! — DVS, Mike, Frank, Jonathan, and Mark!”
Todd joined Riot V in 2013 following the death of founding member Mark Reale, recording three studio albums with the band: Unleash The Fire (2014), Armor Of Light (2018), and Mean Streets (2024), plus the live releases Live At Keep It True Festival (2018) and Live In Japan (2019).
Before Riot V, he was a member of Jack Starr‘s Burning Starr. His solo work includes Sonic Healing (2021) and Off The Rails (2024), both with Metal Church guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof via Rat Pak Records. In 2020, he made the top 20 on Season 18 of NBC’s The Voice, landing on Team Blake.
