Former Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns has returned to social media with a cryptic birthday message, announcing a temporary break from online platforms. The post, shared on his official Instagram account on April 22—his 46th birthday—has sparked speculation among fans about a long-delayed creative project.
Johns Announces Social Media Hiatus
Johns, known for his poetic reflections and deeply personal art, addressed his followers in a reflective tone. In his first post in over a year, he wrote about the meaning of time, art, and emotional exploration, before revealing plans to step back from social media.
“I have to go back in time to finalise something and as a result I won’t be on socials,” Johns said. “My team will keep an eye on things. I will have my phone. All is love xx.”
While Johns did not offer details about the project, the wording of “go back in time” has reignited curiosity about a film he previously teased.
The Mystery of What If The Future Never Happened?
In 2022, Johns released a trailer for a short film titled What If The Future Never Happened? on YouTube. Described as a “genre-bending, semi-autobiographical featurette,” the project explores the story of a younger Johns meeting his future self.
At the time, the film was expected to launch in early 2024. However, since the initial trailer, no official updates or promotional material have surfaced. With Johns’ latest social media message hinting at a return to past projects, fans are speculating the film could finally be nearing completion.
Johns’ last known update about the film came in October 2023. In a post, he mentioned taking a break from social media to focus on “finishing orchestration and credit sequence” for the project. The new Instagram post echoes a similar sentiment, suggesting renewed momentum.
A Journey Through Recovery and Reinvention
Johns’ artistic work has been shaped by personal challenges in recent years. In March 2022, he was involved in a car accident while under the influence of alcohol. He later pleaded guilty to driving more than three times the legal limit on the Pacific Highway in New South Wales.
A court sentenced him to a 10-month intensive corrections order and suspended his driver’s license for seven months. Johns avoided jail due to what the judge described as “exceptional circumstances and background.”
Following the incident, he checked into a rehabilitation facility. During this period, he released FutureNever, his second solo album, which received praise for its emotional honesty and creative depth. He also launched a docuseries titled Inside The Mind of Daniel Johns, where he openly discussed his addiction struggles and creative process.
A History of Stepping Back
This isn’t the first time Johns has distanced himself from the online world to focus on creative work. His October 2023 post was similar in nature—announcing a year-long absence to complete ongoing projects.
“I’m notoriously bad at stopping and smelling the roses,” Johns wrote at the time. “So I’m putting this here to remind myself.”
Since the release of FutureNever, Johns has kept a low profile. His occasional public statements have usually coincided with creative milestones or personal reflections, rather than promotional campaigns.
Fans Hopeful for New Material
While Johns has not confirmed the nature of his latest endeavor, fans are hoping the upcoming project is the long-awaited What If The Future Never Happened?. Many believe the artist’s cryptic mention of “going back in time” is a nod to the film’s time-travel theme.
As speculation builds, Johns’ loyal fanbase continues to support his artistic journey, with many expressing excitement and encouragement in the comments section of his latest post.
