Huge rock band fires drummer as devastated musician releases statement breaking silence on his axe
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FOO Fighters have sensationally sacked drummer Josh Freese just two years after he stepped in to replace the late Taylor Hawkins.
The Dave Grohl fronted band reportedly called Josh on Monday night to tell him they were 'going in a different direction' with no explanation given.
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Josh Freese has been dropped by Foo Fighters
Credit: Getty
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Josh replaced Taylor Hawkins two years after when the musician tragically died
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Dave Grohl performing with Foo Fighters in 2007
Credit: Getty
It comes amid reports of their 2025 tour being cancelled, after Grohl revealed he fathered a baby outside of his marriage.
They'll now headline the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix concerts on October 4 without drummer Josh Freese.
Josh, 52, shared a picture of his statement revealing his departure from the legendary group, captioning it simply on Instagram: 'Well, there it is.'
In the emotional post, he wrote: 'The d called me Monday night to let me know they've decided 'to go in a different direction with their drummer.' No reason was given. :(
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'Regardless, I enjoyed the past two years with them, both on and off stage, and I support whatever they feel is best for the band.
'In my 40 years of drumming professionally, I've never been let go from a band, 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.
'Stay tuned for my 'Top 10 possible reasons Josh got booted from the Foo Fighters' list.'
Freese had joined the band in 2023 following the tragic death of Taylor Hawkins, who died suddenly while on tour in Colombia in March 2022.
Fans and fellow musicians quickly rallied behind Freese, with many stunned by the sudden axe.
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One fan wrote: 'Damn. I became a fan of Josh very quickly after we lost Taylor. Really hoping this is Shane about to take his dad's seat.'
Reactions also poured in from well-known names.
Mike Portnoy, former drummer for progressive metal band Dream Theater, said:'Damn I'm shocked! You seemed to be the perfect fit!'
Comedian and actor Tim Heidecker, known for cult shows like Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!, added:
'Upside is you won't have to hear any of those awful songs!'
And Wendi McLendon-Covey, star of Bridesmaids and The Goldbergs, chimed in:
'WTF???!!! But hey, you'll always be fine. You might actually be fishing a billet. Love to you and your family!'
The Foo Fighters have yet to comment.
Taylor, 50, was found unresponsive in his hotel room.
A toxicology report revealed a mix of substances in his system, though no official cause of death was publicly confirmed.
Many fans have speculated Taylor's son Shane Hawkins, who wowed crowds drumming in tribute to his dad at the Wembley memorial concert, could now be stepping into the role.
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Josh standing next to Dave Grohl, with Pat Smear, Chris Shiflett, Rami Jaffee, and Nate Mendel of Foo Fighters in March last year
Credit: Getty
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