Mark Hoppus, the renowned bassist and vocalist for the iconic pop-punk band Blink-182, has opened up about a wide range of personal and global topics in a candid new interview. From reflecting on the current political climate in the United States to sharing intimate details of his cancer battle, Hoppus offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his life beyond the stage.
A World Perplexed by American Politics
Hoppus expressed a sentiment felt by many across the globe, stating his belief that the whole world feels confused by what's happening in the US currently. He elaborated that every American citizen, regardless of whether they are supporters, dissenters, or resisters, seems to be asking the same fundamental question: what the hell's going on?
The musician highlighted the challenge of navigating modern media, noting that attempts to find actual facts are often thwarted by clickbait headlines designed primarily to enrage readers. He shared an anecdote from a recent breakfast in England, where a local couple immediately asked for his thoughts on Donald Trump, underscoring the international fascination with American political turmoil.
From London Farm Life to a Multi-Million Pound Banksy
Delving into more personal territory, Hoppus reminisced about his time living in London and maintaining a 25-acre farm in Somerset. He fondly recalled keeping chickens named after women from Blink-182 songs, such as Wendy, Holly, and Josie, and the surprising bounty of honey production—up to 150 jars per season—with help from a local beekeeper from the British Beekeeping Association.
The conversation turned to his decision to sell a prized Banksy artwork, Crude Oil (Vettriano), which fetched £4.3 million at a Sotheby's auction in London. Hoppus clarified that the primary motivation wasn't fear of theft, but rather anxiety over potential damage from guests who would lean in too closely with drinks. The stress of safeguarding such a valuable piece became overwhelming, leading to the sale. A portion of the proceeds was donated to charity, including his own haematology oncology research fund and the Los Angeles Firefighters Association following the city's devastating fires, with some funds also earmarked to support emerging artists.
The Harrowing Reality of Cancer Survival
In one of the interview's most poignant segments, Hoppus discussed his battle with cancer, revealing his profound surprise at still being alive. Diagnosed with a type of cancer that had only one treatment option—R-CHOP chemotherapy—he was given a stark 60% chance of survival without recurrence.
He described the chemotherapy experience in visceral terms, likening it to being crushed and set on fire from the inside. The massive daily doses of steroids, similar to those he takes for vocal issues on tour but in far greater quantities, induced a state of hyper-crazy agitation. Despite the ordeal, Hoppus reflected on the strange sense of freedom that came with confronting mortality, a theme he explores in his new memoir, Fahrenheit-182.
Music, Memories, and Mischief
Hoppus also touched on lighter subjects, including his school days growing up on a military base in the desert, where he felt isolated until discovering skateboarding and alternative goth music at age 13. He cited The Cure as a major influence, even dressing as frontman Robert Smith, which he admitted was an unconventional look for his surroundings.
As a bass player, he proudly championed the instrument's role, naming Peter Hook of New Order and Simon Gallup of The Cure among his top influences, along with the dual bassists of Ned's Atomic Dustbin. Bass players are just cool, he asserted. We're the glue—the one that brings it all together, bridging the rhythm of the drums with the melody of the guitar and vocals.
The interview concluded with a humorous confirmation of a legendary encounter with Oasis, where Liam Gallagher offered a backhanded compliment to the band's cool factor without endorsing their music. Hoppus is currently promoting his memoir with speaking engagements in Australia, reflecting on a life marked by chaos, creativity, and resilience.
