Thousands of Metallica fans across the globe stuck out their arms to donate blood, as a result of the band’s partnership with the American Red Cross.
Metallica’s All Within My Hands foundation first launched its partnership with the American Red Cross in April 2025. Since then, more than 25,000 blood donations have been collected across the U.S. as part of the collaboration. In addition, the band encouraged blood donation at overseas stops along their M72 World Tour — and as a result, about 40,000 total blood donations were collected worldwide.
“A hallmark mission of the All Within My Hands Foundation is to support critical care and communities, encouraging fans and friends to take action,” Lars Ulrich, founding member of Metallica, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled the Metallica Family recognizes the importance of blood donation and didn’t hesitate to rally behind this lifesaving effort. Their enthusiasm has made a real difference, and we’re honored to stand alongside them.”
After launching with blood drives at select stops during the U.S. leg of Metallica’s M72 Tour, the campaign expanded nationwide, giving fans across the country a chance to participate. Individuals who donated blood or platelets at any Red Cross blood drive between July 29, 2025, and Feb. 28, 2026 (and registered their donation) received a limited-edition T-shirt, while supplies lasted, and were entered to win an ESP Snakebyte guitar featuring an exclusive Red Cross x Metallica design by Squindo, autographed by all Metallica band members.
The Metallica/American Red Cross initiative also spurred a new generation of donors: 16% of participants were first-time blood donors, and nearly half of those new donors were ages 16-24. That support comes amid a broader increase in Gen Z blood donors year-over-year, “highlighting this generation’s willingness to step up through simple acts of service,” per the American Red Cross.
“What Metallica and their fans have accomplished this year is truly monumental ─ inspiring people to give blood for the first time while also energizing teens and young adults about the donation process,” said Darren Irby, Red Cross executive director for national partnerships.
The American Red Cross said people can make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App; at redcrossblood.org; by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767); or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be at least 17 years old most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health.
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