In a surprising turn of events, Zak Starkey, the drummer who has been with the legendary rock band The Who for nearly 30 years, has parted ways with the group. The decision, described by a band spokesperson as a "collective decision," follows a series of performances at the Royal Albert Hall in March 2025 that were part of the Teenage Cancer Trust charity gigs.
Starkey, who has been a staple in The Who since he joined during their 1996 Quadrophenia tour, expressed his shock and disappointment regarding his dismissal. "I’m very proud of my near thirty years with The Who. Filling the shoes of my Godfather, 'uncle Keith' [Moon] has been the biggest honour and I remain their biggest fan. They’ve been like family to me," he stated in an interview with Rolling Stone.
The split reportedly stemmed from frustrations during the Royal Albert Hall shows, where frontman Roger Daltrey expressed difficulty hearing himself over Starkey's drumming. A review from Metro noted that Daltrey paused their closing track, "The Song Is Over," stating, "To sing that song I do need to hear the key, and I can’t. All I’ve got is drums going boom, boom, boom. I can’t sing to that. I’m sorry guys." This incident highlighted the tension between Starkey and Daltrey, leading to speculation about the drummer's future with the band.
Despite the amicable portrayal of the split by the band, insiders have indicated that the situation was more complicated. A source told The Mirror that the split was "a little acrimonious to say the least." This sentiment was echoed in Starkey's own reflections, where he expressed surprise that anyone would find fault with his performance. "After playing those songs with the band for so many decades, I’m surprised and saddened anyone would have an issue with my performance that night, but what can you do?" he remarked.
Starkey's departure comes on the heels of a serious medical emergency he faced earlier this year. In January 2025, he was treated for blood clots in his right calf, which he confirmed has since healed and does not affect his drumming abilities. "This is now completely healed and does not affect my drumming or running," he clarified.
In light of his dismissal, Starkey plans to take some much-needed time off with his family. He is also focusing on the release of a new single, "Domino Bones," by his other band, Mantra of the Cosmos, which features contributions from Noel Gallagher. Additionally, Starkey is working on finishing his autobiography, stating, "Twenty-nine years at any job is a good old run, and I wish them the best."
As The Who prepares for upcoming shows in Italy this July, the band has yet to announce a replacement for Starkey. Daltrey, who has been open about his own health issues, including hearing and eyesight challenges, is set to embark on a solo tour as well.
Starkey's musical journey began at a young age, influenced by his father, Ringo Starr of The Beatles, and family friend Keith Moon, The Who's original drummer. Starkey has not only made a name for himself in The Who but has also collaborated with various notable artists, including Oasis, Johnny Marr, and Paul Weller.
Fans and music critics alike have expressed their disbelief at Starkey's departure, with many questioning the band's decision to part ways with such a talented drummer. A representative for Starkey described the situation as a "typical rock and roll falling out," a phrase that encapsulates the often tumultuous nature of life in the music industry.
As Starkey reflects on his time with The Who, he remains optimistic about the future. "I plan to take some much needed time off with my family, and focus on my upcoming projects. It’s been a great run, and I’m excited for what lies ahead," he concluded.
