(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Drummer Lars Ulrich said Metallica frontman James Hetfield is on the path to recovery.

In a new interview with USA Today, Ulrich said, “He’s doing what he needs to, he’s in the process of healing himself. I feel bad for everybody down in Australia and New Zealand, but we’re excited to get back to full force and come back stronger and healthier than ever. Along the way, there’s obviously an occasional bump in the road. But it’s been an incredible ride, and we’re looking forward to getting back down there, hopefully next year.”

Metallica’s tours in Australia and New Zealand were postponed after Hetfield checked himself into rehab. When reflecting on the aftermath of the announcement, Ulrich said, “I think the biggest surprise is just how positive the feedback has been from our fans and friends and peers alike. It’s very heartwarming, and it’s just blown our minds how much love and appreciation and support we’ve gotten in the last week since we had to postpone this.”

Read the full story on Loudwire.