Why did Foo Fighters fire drummer Josh Freese? What we know

In mid-May 2025, the Foo Fighters informed Josh Freese that they were “going in a different direction” with their drummer, leaving him surprised and disappointed. Josh Freese, who joined the band in May 2023 after the tragic loss of Taylor Hawkins, said he received no further explanation beyond that phrase.

This marks the first time in Freese's forty-year career that he has been let go from a band. The Foo Fighters simply said that they chose to replace him, implying a change in their musical or personal dynamics behind the scenes. While they have declined to comment publicly, his announcement on Instagram laid out the facts plainly.

In the coming months, both the band and Josh Freese will move on to new chapters in their respective careers. He has performed with the Foo Fighters for the past two years, including in London and Los Angeles when they did tribute shows to Hawkins.

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Josh Freese became the Foo Fighters’ drummer after Taylor Hawkins passed away

Taylor Hawkins died in March 2022, creating a sudden vacancy in one of rock’s most high-profile bands. To fill that gap, the Foo Fighters tapped Josh Freese, an in-demand session drummer whose résumé includes work with Nine Inch Nails, Guns N’ Roses, and Devo.

In May 2023, the band introduced him during a livestream featuring cameo appearances by Chad Smith and Tommy Lee, suggesting they valued both his skill and stage presence. Over the next two years, Josh Freese recorded and toured in support of But Here We Are, the band’s first album after Hawkins’s death.

He played dozens of shows and became a visible part of the group’s public face, making his sudden exit all the more unexpected.

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The band chose “to go in a different direction” without giving more detail

On May 16, 2025, Josh Freese shared an Instagram post quoting the band’s decision: they “decided to go in a different direction with their drummer,” and offered no other reason. His post said,

“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, 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.”

No statement from Foo Fighters management has appeared to clarify whether this move reflects a desire for a permanent creative partner, a different playing style, or other strategic choices. The lack of detail has fueled speculation but confirmed only that Freese’s services are no longer needed.

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Fans and experts have speculated about the next steps for the band

Reactions online have ranged from respect for Josh Freese’s professionalism to guesses about who might replace him. Some suggest the band is preparing for new musical directions on future recordings, while others point to possible auditions or even a tribute-inspired choice, such as Taylor Hawkins’s son, Shane.

Industry insiders note that the Foo Fighters’ next live date is booked for October 4, 2025, at the Singapore Grand Prix, meaning a new drummer must be found soon.

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Josh Freese will continue as a freelance drummer as the Foo Fighters regroup

Josh Freese emphasized that he has always thrived as a freelance musician, balancing studio sessions and tours. He expressed gratitude for his time with the Foo Fighters and signaled readiness for new projects. Given his extensive network and reputation, he is likely to book high-profile gigs quickly.

Meanwhile, Foo Fighters’ leadership must decide how to fill their drumming seat in time for upcoming performances and recording plans. Whether they choose an established name or a fresh face, the decision will shape the band’s sound and image moving forward.

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