After more than half a century of defining the sound of American rock, the Eagles may be preparing to land for the final time. In a recent interview, co-founder and vocalist Don Henley suggested that 2026 will “probably” be the last year for the legendary band, offering the clearest signal yet that their historic run is nearing its end.
Henley, 78, acknowledged the inevitable toll of time while reflecting on the band’s future. “I think this year will probably be it,” he said. “And I’ve said things like that before, but I feel like we’re getting toward the end. And that will be fine too.”
The band is currently in the midst of a blockbuster, extended residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas as part of their The Long Goodbye tour. Originally scheduled for just eight shows, overwhelming demand led to multiple extensions, with the final performance now set for March 28, 2026. Once the Vegas run concludes, the band’s plans become uncertain.
For Henley, the prospect of retirement offers a chance to finally slow down after decades of global touring. He expressed a desire for a quieter life focused on family and, ironically, more personal travel. “I’ve been all over the world, but I haven’t seen much of it,” he noted, “because we see the airports and the hotel room and the venue and we don’t get out much.”
If this is indeed the beginning of the end, the Eagles will bow out with one of the most decorated legacies in music history. Formed in 1971 after Henley and Glenn Frey met while backing Linda Ronstadt, the band went on to sell over 200 million records, win six Grammy Awards, and earn induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their album Hotel California is often cited as one of the greatest ever made.
While Henley stopped short of announcing a formal farewell tour, his comments mark a pivotal moment for the band and their millions of fans worldwide. After 55 years, the Eagles appear ready to take their final bow, secure in the knowledge that their music has permanently etched itself into the soundtrack of American life.
