Former Van Halen bandmates Alex Van Halen and David Lee Roth are set to appear together publicly for the first time in more than a decade when they take part in a special conversation at TEDxFargo on Thursday in Fargo, North Dakota. Organizers announced that Roth has been added to the event, joining drummer Alex Van Halen and acclaimed artist Robert Vargas for what is being promoted as “Three icons. One stage. One conversation you won’t want to miss.”
The appearance marks the first public reunion between Van Halen and Roth since the band’s final concert on Oct. 4, 2015, at the Hollywood Bowl. While the announcement has fueled excitement among longtime fans, reports indicate the event is expected to be a discussion rather than a musical performance. Vargas, whose best-known works include a large mural honoring the late Eddie Van Halen in Hollywood, is also scheduled to participate in the conversation.
Roth’s addition comes shortly after he canceled all but one of his remaining 2026 tour dates, though no reason has been publicly provided. Alex Van Halen, meanwhile, has maintained a relatively low profile in recent years, making only occasional public appearances following the release of his memoir Brothers and speaking about the band’s history in recent interviews. Earlier this year, he also addressed Van Halen’s 2006 reunion, saying the group had contacted former bassist Michael Anthony before ultimately moving forward with Wolfgang Van Halen.
TEDxFargo’s annual conference will feature dozens of speakers over two days under this year’s theme, “CHARGE.” Fans unable to attend in person are expected to have an opportunity to watch the conversation after organizers upload the session to TEDxFargo’s YouTube channels in the weeks following the event. Although no Van Halen performance has been announced, the reunion of Alex Van Halen and Roth is expected to be one of the conference’s most closely watched moments.
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