Metal legends JUDAS PRIEST have confirmed plans to return to the studio in 2026 to begin work on what would be their 20th studio album. Bassist Ian Hill made the announcement following the band's triumphant Faithkeeper Tour, which has taken them across Europe and North America in support of Invincible Shield — their 2024 record that reached the Top 20 in multiple international charts.
Hill stated that the band remains creatively fired up: "We've been writing on the road — ideas are flowing. There's no shortage of material." Guitarist Richie Faulkner, who made a full recovery following heart surgery, is expected to play a central role in the new album's composition.
Frontman Rob Halford, now in his mid-70s, has shown no vocal decline whatsoever on the Faithkeeper run — the shows have received unanimous praise from fans and critics alike. Founded in Birmingham in 1969, JUDAS PRIEST show no signs of slowing: the Faithkeeper Tour ranks among the highest-grossing metal tours of recent years.
No label, release window, or title has been announced for the 20th album yet, but its existence is confirmed. More updates are expected throughout 2026.