November 3, 2011 13:16

Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford sued for $50 million by ex-manager

John Baxter had managed the metal veteran for almost 30 years until he was fired in August

Photo: PA

Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford is being sued by his former manager for over $50 million (£32.5 million).

John Baxter, who had managed Halford from 1982 until he was sacked in August, alleges that Halford and other members of Judas Priest and its management team committed fraud, breach of contract and intentional interference with contractual relations. He is demanding $50 million in damages.

Baxter alleges that he also discovered in August that the singer owes him millions of dollars for contract breaches, including failure to pay commissions, salary and expenses, which date back to 1992, reports Rolling Stone.

Halford fired Baxter in August via a letters from his lawyer, which alleged that the manager was "not acting in Halford's best interests", had posted cruel comments on Halford's official website and "placed an intolerable strain" on his relationships with the remaining members of Judas Priest.

Baxter's lawyers have stated that they believe Halford had no reason to fire Baxter and say he is entitled to damages as a result.

The band themselves have posted a statement on their official website, which reads as follows: "There has recently been some nonsense and propaganda posted on the Internet including on Rob's website, regarding the band and management. (Rob currently is not controlling his website and absolutely does not agree with the comments). We refuse to get drawn into any public arguments - it is below us and will be dealt with legally."

Judas Priest played their last ever UK tour this summer, but have said they will continue to write and record together.