Deryck Whibley, the frontman of Sum 41, has written a memoir titled “Walking Disaster: My Life Through Heaven and Hell.” Initially, Whibley didn’t believe his life was interesting enough for an autobiography compared to other rock stars. However, as he began writing, he realized there were important stories to share about the highs and lows of his career. This includes allegations of sexual and verbal abuse by the band’s former manager.
In his book, Whibley recounts moments of rock star excess such as chart-topping albums and wild parties. But alongside these successes are painful experiences like physical injuries, panic disorder, near-death encounters, and struggles with alcoholism. The book delves into details that Whibley had previously only shared with a few people.
One significant aspect of the memoir is Whibley’s description of his relationship with Greig Nori, Sum 41’s first manager. According to Whibley’s account in ”Walking Disaster,” Nori groomed and sexually abused him starting when he was 16 years old. Nori allegedly exerted control over every aspect of their lives and even insisted on being credited as a songwriter on most tracks.
Whibley reveals that he never told anyone about this abusive relationship until confiding in Avril Lavigne when they were dating. He also claims that Nori psychologically manipulated him by pitting band members against each other.
Despite sharing these allegations in his book, Whibley has not confronted Nori directly or informed his bandmates about the abuse. He admits feeling conflicted about whether or not to confront Nori due to lingering feelings of control from their past relationship.
Throughout “Walking Disaster,” Whibley reflects on how this abusive dynamic affected him personally and professionally. He hopes that by sharing his story honestly without holding back any details or fearing ridicule from others, he can move forward into a new chapter of his life after Sum 41’s farewell tour concludes.
As for what lies ahead for Whibley after the tour ends in January 2023, he remains open-minded but excited for new opportunities while enjoying some well-deserved time off with his wife Ariana Cooper.