The Who Parts Ways With Drummer Zak Starkey — Again

In a surprising turn of events, legendary rock band The Who has officially parted ways with their drummer Zak Starkey for the second time in just one month. The split was announced on Sunday via Instagram by both the band and Starkey himself, sparking confusion and contrasting accounts from each side.

Mixed Messages: Mutual Split or Firing?

Pete Townshend, The Who’s iconic guitarist and main songwriter, hinted the decision was mutual, saying, “the time has come for a change,” and wishing Starkey well with his upcoming projects. But Starkey told a different story, claiming he was outright “fired” and pressured to say he had quit to focus on other musical endeavors.

“It’s been weeks of mayhem, with me going in and out like a bleedin’ squeezebox,” Starkey said, highlighting the chaos behind the scenes.

A Rocky Month for Starkey

Starkey, son of Beatles legend Ringo Starr, has been a key part of The Who’s lineup since 1996. However, last month, the band reportedly fired him after being unhappy with his performance during a show at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Surprisingly, just days later, the band reversed course, announcing Starkey would return after some “communication issues, personal and private on all sides” were resolved. Townshend even addressed the concert troubles, admitting, “maybe we didn’t put enough time into sound checks,” and acknowledging the challenges of performing live.

Why the Sudden Reversal?

Despite the initial reinstatement, it remains unclear why the band changed their minds again. CNN has reached out for comment but hasn’t received a response.

Townshend’s recent statement confirmed the split, saying Starkey has “lots of new projects” and wishing him the best. Starkey pushed back, noting his other work has never interfered with The Who’s sporadic touring schedule.

What’s Next for Zak Starkey?

Starkey’s representative said he’s “quite chilled about the whole affair” and focused on a fresh, contemporary project: his supergroup Mantra of the Cosmos, whose upcoming single features Oasis star Noel Gallagher.

The Who’s Farewell Tour Looms

Starkey’s departure comes just three months before The Who’s highly anticipated farewell North American tour, nearly six decades after the band first hit the scene.

With only Townshend and lead singer Roger Daltrey remaining of the original four founding members — bassist John Entwhistle passed away in 2002, and original drummer Keith Moon, Starkey’s godfather, died in 1978 — Starkey had long been considered the band’s “unofficial” official drummer.

For the upcoming tour, Townshend announced that Scott Devours will step in as drummer. Devours, who has performed with Daltrey on solo gigs and previously filled in for Starkey, is set to carry the beat for The Who’s final shows.