Would Metallica Ever Write Another ‘Unforgiven’ Sequel? James Hetfield Responds

Would Metallica ever consider writing another “Unforgiven” sequel? This intriguing question was addressed by James Hetfield in a recent episode of The Metallica Report podcast.

The iconic “Unforgiven” trilogy, featuring songs on ‘The Black Album’ (1991), ‘Reload’ (1997), and ‘Deаth Magnetic’ (2008), shares thematic and musical continuity. Hetfield, the principal lyricist, imbues these songs with deep personal meaning, reflecting self-examination and vulnerability.

During the podcast, which includes questions from fans, Hetfield was asked if the “Unforgiven” trilogy is complete.

“I’m not deаd! I’m not deаd yet,” Hetfield replied with a laugh, indicating that the series isn’t necessarily over.

Hetfield didn’t commit to a timeline or guarantee another sequel, embodying the classic “never sаy never” approach.

“I don’t know if we’re going to have ‘Unforgiven XII’ or not. I don’t know. If I sаy I know then it’ll be different,” he joked before offering a more serious reflection on the lyrical evolution of the trilogy.

“‘Unforgiven III’ is obviously about self-forgiveness, which I didn’t have in the first one. ‘II’ was kind of the middle ground. ‘Unforgiven III’ dealt with ‘How can I forgive you if I can’t forgive myself?’ That is kind of the wrap-up to that,” Hetfield explained. “But there could be more. I don’t know.”

Deep Cuts Metallica Want to PlayIn another segment of The Metallica Report podcast, Hetfield revealed that the band often discusses including two deep cuts in their setlists: “The Frayed Ends of Sanity” and “Dyers Eve” from their progressive album …And Justice For All.

“We have played them in the past, and they’ve come up here and there,” Hetfield said. “I think it’s just more of a… I don’t know, a talent check with each other? Like, ‘Can you play this song?’”

The New Band Hetfield Is Excited AboutHetfield also expressed his excitement for a new band, Category 7, which features metal veterans including singer John Bush. Hetfield was impressed by their music even before knowing the band’s lineup.

“When I heard the song on the radio, I didn’t know who was in the band and suԀԀenly recognized the voice. My initial reaction was unbiased for a moment. I heard one song on the radio and that’s it and it was great. It was really good,” he shared.