Guitarist Nick Valensi made an unexpected appearance on stage with Duran Duran in Paris on Wednesday night as The Strokes concluded their tour without him.
According to NME, Valensi walked out at the Accor Arena during Duran Duran's headlining set to play their final song of the night, "Rio," navigating some minor technical difficulties during the performance.
The appearance occurred on the same evening The Strokes wrapped up their United Kingdom and European tour with a final concert in Dublin. Valensi has been on an announced leave of absence from the group since May, when the band stated he would take a temporary break from their 2026 tour dates without detailing a reason.
Valensi last played with The Strokes at Coachella in April. In his absence, guitarist Steve Schlitz of Longwave filled in on tour duties. Frontman Julian Casablancas previously told fans that Valensi would return soon, though no formal date has been set.
The Paris guest spot is Valensi's second surprise live performance since stepping away from The Strokes' road schedule. He previously joined Jack White on stage for an appearance in Los Angeles.