Johnny Marr, the former guitarist and co-songwriter of The Smiths, has made headlines by revealing that he turned down the opportunity for a reunion tour with the iconic band. Marr also took action to protect the band’s legacy amidst a trademark dispute, denying claims made by the band’s frontman, Morrissey. In a statement released by Marr’s management team, the 60-year-old musician stated that he intervened to prevent third parties from exploiting the band’s name and to safeguard its legacy. Marr clarified, “To prevent third parties from profiting from the band’s name, it was left to me to protect the legacy.”
Regarding a possible reunion tour, Marr confirmed that he declined the offer, stating, “As for the offer to tour, I didn’t ignore the offer – I said no.” The recent statements by Morrissey suggesting otherwise were addressed in Marr’s response, titled “Recent statements by Morrissey on his website regarding the trademark of The Smiths name are incorrect.” The Manchester-based band reached the height of their success in the 1980s, producing hits like “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” and “This Charming Man” before disbanding in 1987.
Morrissey had previously claimed that Marr rejected a reunion tour and had acquired trademark rights without consultation. Marr’s management clarified that he had sought to work with Morrissey to protect The Smiths’ name in 2018 but proceeded to register the trademark himself after receiving no response. Ultimately, mutual agreement was reached with Morrissey’s lawyers in 2024, with Marr transferring joint ownership of the trademark to Morrissey as a goodwill gesture.
Dispelling rumours of an upcoming tour with a different frontman for The Smiths, Marr emphasized that there are no such plans in the works. Additionally, he disclosed turning down an offer for a new greatest hits compilation album. Marr’s actions underscore his commitment to preserving The Smiths’ legacy and ensuring the band’s name is safeguarded.