Alice Cooper Replaces Guitarist Nita Strauss with Rising Star Anna Cara

Longtime Cooper guitarist Strauss steps back to focus on pregnancy, endorses her young successor

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up photograph of electric guitar strings and hardware, capturing the high-contrast textures and dramatic lighting of a rock and roll performance.The transition of guitar talent on Alice Cooper's stage signals a new era of rock showmanship.Las Vegas Today

Longtime Alice Cooper guitarist Nita Strauss has issued a statement addressing her temporary departure from the shock rock legend's touring band. Strauss, who has played with Cooper since 2014, is stepping back to focus on a healthy pregnancy and welcoming her first child. Cooper has tapped 22-year-old British guitarist Anna Cara, whom Strauss herself handpicked as her replacement, to join the band for their upcoming Welcome To Our Nightmare residency in Las Vegas and the Alice's Attic tour.

Why it matters

Strauss's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Alice Cooper's band history, as she has been a fixture in the group for over a decade. Her endorsement of the young Cara as her successor highlights the trust and confidence the veteran guitarist has in her replacement, who brings impressive credentials despite her young age.

The details

Strauss addressed her temporary departure in a statement, expressing support for Cara and excitement for the band's upcoming shows. 'Wishing the AC/CA squad an incredible first show back tonight! The Welcome To Our Nightmare show and the Alice's Attic tour to follow are truly some of the most fun and dynamic productions that I've been a part of and I already miss being out there with you guys!' Strauss said. She explained that she will be 'sitting out the rest of the touring year' to focus on her pregnancy and welcoming her first child. Strauss also praised Cara's abilities, noting that she had previously recommended the young guitarist as 'the best up and coming guitarist' when asked in an interview.

  • Strauss has been playing with Alice Cooper since 2014, when she replaced Australian musician and former Michael Jackson player Orianthi.
  • Cara will be joining Cooper's band for their upcoming Welcome To Our Nightmare residency starting April 2 at the Criss Angel Theater in Las Vegas.
  • Strauss's departure coincides with her pregnancy and the upcoming birth of her first child.

The players

Nita Strauss

Longtime Alice Cooper guitarist who is stepping back from touring to focus on her pregnancy and welcoming her first child.

Anna Cara

22-year-old British guitarist who has been handpicked by Strauss to replace her in Alice Cooper's touring band.

Alice Cooper

Legendary shock rock musician whose band Strauss has been a part of since 2014.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Wishing the AC/CA squad an incredible first show back tonight! The Welcome To Our Nightmare show and the Alice's Attic tour to follow are truly some of the most fun and dynamic productions that I've been a part of and I already miss being out there with you guys!”

— Nita Strauss, Longtime Alice Cooper Guitarist

“And of course, a very warm welcome to my sister in shred Anna Cara. When I was asked in an interview who I thought the best up and coming guitarist was, I had no hesitation in answering 'Anna Cara of Crossbone Skully.' Anna's precision and soulful, emotional playing will make her an amazing asset to the Cooper tour!”

— Nita Strauss, Longtime Alice Cooper Guitarist

What’s next

Cooper's Welcome To Our Nightmare residency in Las Vegas begins on April 2, marking Anna Cara's debut with the band.

The takeaway

Nita Strauss's departure from Alice Cooper's band after over a decade signals the end of an era, but her endorsement of the young and talented Anna Cara as her successor demonstrates the trust and confidence the veteran guitarist has in the next generation of rock talent.