Gojira US Tour: Luigi Paraventi Replaces Mario Duplantier

Metal band Gojira has confirmed that drummer Mario Duplantier will be unable to perform on part of an upcoming stretch of shows in the United States, and he has been temporarily replaced by Luigi Paraventi. The band framed the swap with a playful “Player 2” gaming reference—complete with an image pairing Mario and Luigi from the Mushroom Kingdom—while explaining that Duplantier’s absence is tied to an immigration problem that made it impossible to travel in time.

Mario Duplantier sidelined by travel issue

Gojira said Mario Duplantier could not make the upcoming US dates due to an “immigration issue” that prevented him from traveling to the country in time for the performances. The band did not share any further specifics about what the issue involves.

In its statement, Gojira also said Duplantier is “heartbroken” to miss the shows and that he had “fought hard every step of the way” to find a solution.

Luigi Paraventi steps in temporarily

To cover the missing drum duties, Gojira named Luigi Paraventi as Duplantier’s temporary replacement. Paraventi is associated with the band Paleface Swiss and is known for posting drum covers across social media. Gojira’s announcement referenced these kinds of cover videos as part of how Paraventi is recognized by fans.

Tour timing and what’s next

Gojira’s US tour begins today, July 16, at Rock Fest in Wisconsin. From there, the band is scheduled to play a sequence of summer festival appearances, with the run wrapping up in September.

Why the “Player 2” framing resonates beyond music

Gojira’s announcement leans into gamer language, with the band stating, “Player 2 has entered game. RESPECT!” The message turns a last-minute logistical change into something fans can quickly understand through a familiar gaming trope, while also reinforcing how deeply gaming culture has seeped into mainstream entertainment marketing.

Mario Duplantier will miss some US shows due to an immigration problem affecting travel timing.
Luigi Paraventi will fill in temporarily on drums.
The US tour starts July 16 at Rock Fest in Wisconsin and continues through summer festivals until September.
Gojira used a gaming-themed announcement and Mushroom Kingdom imagery to communicate the replacement.