Former Metallica star Jason Newsted has been forced to pull out of supergroup Rock Star Supernova two months before their first show after suffering a major shoulder injury. The rocker reportedly tore his left bicep and rotator cuff while trying to catch a bass that had fallen off an amplifier.

A spokesman claims Newsted requires surgery and will not be able to return to the stage for nine months. Rock Star Supernova, founded by Tommy Lee and Gilby Clarke and featuring reality TV show winner Lukas Rossi, hope to continue with album release plans and a New Year's Eve concert in Las Vegas, Nevada without Newsted. Lee admits the group will replace the bass player temporarily, but Newsted will always be welcomed back.

The drummer says, "Jason was always the right guy for this band and we'll miss having him with us as we kick off our album and tour, but we know he'll be back as soon as he can pick up and play."

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)