ROB HALFORD has addressed the relationship between JUDAS PRIEST and longtime guitarist K.K. DOWNING, whose participation in the band's new documentary has reignited talk of a possible reunion. Speaking about the film, the veteran vocalist emphasized that mutual affection between the two musicians endures despite DOWNING's departure from JUDAS PRIEST in 2011.
"The love and respect that we still have for each other is still there," HALFORD stated, praising DOWNING's involvement in "The Ballad of Judas Priest" — a documentary that premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in February 2026 and is set to receive its North American premiere at the Hot Docs festival in Toronto from April 23 to May 3.
The film was co-directed by documentary maker Sam Dunn and RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE guitarist Tom Morello, and charts JUDAS PRIEST's decades-long rise through the British heavy metal scene to global legend status. DOWNING's inclusion was deemed essential given his foundational role in shaping the band's sound — he co-wrote many songs still performed in JUDAS PRIEST's live set today alongside HALFORD and guitarist Glenn Tipton.
HALFORD addressed the perennial question of DOWNING returning to the band, suggesting that a musician must feel a burning internal drive before stepping back onto any stage. "You really have to wanna get on that stage. You can't hold anything back," he said, implying DOWNING made the right choice by stepping away.
JUDAS PRIEST continue to tour and record with their current lineup, carrying the twin guitar tradition with Richie Faulkner. "The Ballad of Judas Priest" promises an intimate look at over five decades of heavy metal history.