Metal Anarchy

Pete Sandoval (Terrorizer, ex-Morbid Angel, etc.) has revealed that he has been diagnosed with autism. The drummer says the discovery has “allowed [him] to better understand [himself] instead of fighting it.”

Sandoval said the following:

“After many years of confusion and misdiagnosis, I’ve finally been properly diagnosed as autistic (Level 1) ADOS-2 module 4 (and some other tests) . This has been part of who I am since childhood, even though for a long time I didn’t have the words or understanding for it.

Over the years, this has affected how I communicate, how I process sound, and how I interact with people — sometimes in ways that may have seemed confusing, distant, or misunderstood. It was never about not caring, not listening, or not wanting to connect.

Now, at 61 having clarity has brought a lot of peace. It explains so much — and it’s allowed me to better understand myself instead of fighting it.

I’m still here, still playing, still creating, still grateful — after back surgery, after life challenges, and now with a better understanding of my own mind.

If sharing this helps even one person feel less alone or more patient with themselves or others, then it’s worth it.

Thank you for the love and support through the years.”