Foo Fighters Part Ways with Drummer Josh Freese Amid Band Turmoil
[Image: Josh Freese performing with Foo Fighters at Glastonbury 2023]

The Foo Fighters have shocked fans by abruptly dismissing drummer Josh Freese, who joined the band in 2023 following the death of longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins. Freese, 52, announced his exit via Instagram, revealing the band informed him they were moving “in a different direction” without further explanation.

“I’m not angry—just a bit shocked and disappointed,” wrote Freese, a seasoned musician known for work with Nine Inch Nails and Guns N’ Roses. He humorously added he’d share a “Top 10 possible reasons” list for his departure. Fans and fellow rockers, including Mike Portnoy and Wolf Van Halen, expressed disbelief online, calling the move “bizarre.”

[Image: Taylor Hawkins performing in 2005]

Freese had stepped into the role after Hawkins’ tragic death in March 2022 at age 50. Hawkins, who joined the band in 1997, died of heart-related issues exacerbated by multiple substances in his system. His passing led to emotional tribute concerts in London and Los Angeles, where Freese and Hawkins’ son, Oliver Shane, shared drumming duties.

The band’s recent struggles extend beyond lineup changes. In September 2024, frontman Dave Grohl, 56, admitted to fathering a child with Jennifer Young, 38, while married to Jordyn Blum. The revelation strained his 22-year marriage, though sources claim the couple is reconciling. Grohl publicly vowed to “regain [their] trust,” and the pair were spotted together in February 2025 without wedding rings.

[Image: Dave Grohl with wife Jordyn Blum and their daughters in 2023]

Freese’s dismissal comes as the Foo Fighters prepare for their October 2025 performance at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix. The band’s current lineup includes Chris Shiflett, Rami Jaffee, Nate Mendel, and Pat Smear. Despite turmoil, insiders say Grohl is prioritizing family and band stability.

Fans remain divided, with some criticizing the decision to remove Freese after his praised performances, including headlining Glastonbury 2023. Others speculate about underlying tensions within the group. As the Foo Fighters navigate this latest chapter, the legacy of Hawkins and the band’s resilience continue to loom large.

[Image: Fan reactions on social media to Freese’s firing]

The band has yet to announce Freese’s replacement, leaving audiences wondering what “different direction” the rock icons will take next.