Drumming News
Two years after stepping in to fill the massive void left by the late Taylor Hawkins, drummer Josh Freese is no longer a member of the Foo Fighters—and the decision appears to have caught him completely off guard.
In a candid Instagram post, Freese, 52, revealed that the band contacted him Monday night to say they’ve decided “to go in a different direction with their drummer.” No explanation was given. The Foo Fighters’ camp has not responded to media requests for comment.
“The Foo Fighters called me Monday night to let me know they’ve decided ‘to go in a different direction with their drummer.’ No reason was given 🙁 Regardless, I enjoyed the past two years with them, both on and off stage,” Freese wrote.
He added, “I support whatever they feel is best for the band.”
Freese, a seasoned musician with decades of experience and credits with Nine Inch Nails, A Perfect Circle, Guns N’ Roses, Devo, and The Vandals, said the dismissal was a first for him.
“In my 40 years of drumming professionally, I’ve never been let go from a band,” he continued. “So while I’m not angry—just a bit shocked and disappointed. But as most of you know I’ve always worked freelance and bounced between bands so, I’m fine.”
Known for his dry wit, Freese ended his message with a touch of humor: “Stay tuned for my ‘Top 10 reasons Josh got booted from the Foo Fighters’ list.”
Freese had joined the band publicly in May 2023 as they returned to the stage following the death of Hawkins, who passed away in March 2022 while on tour in Colombia. Hawkins’ death was later attributed to a mix of substances, and reports noted his heart weighed nearly twice the average size for a man of his age.
Freese’s role in the Foo Fighters had been seen by fans as more than a gig—it was a tribute to a lost friend and a stabilizing force during a fragile chapter for the band. His energetic, respectful performances helped usher the group into a new era while still honoring Hawkins’ legacy.
Reactions from fans and fellow musicians poured in on social media, expressing surprise and support. Drummer Mike Portnoy commented, “Damn… I’m shocked! You seemed to be the perfect fit!!” Actress Wendi McLendon-Coveyechoed the sentiment: “Wtf?????? But hey, you’ll always be fine… and you might actually be dodging a bullet. Love to you and your family!”
The Foo Fighters, led by Dave Grohl, currently have only one upcoming show scheduled: a performance at the Singapore Grand Prix on October 4.
Freese’s departure leaves questions about who will next sit behind the kit for one of rock’s most enduring bands—but for now, the man himself seems ready to move forward.
“I’m fine,” he reminded followers. And with a career like his, there’s little doubt that his rhythm will carry on—loud and clear.
