After nearly two years on the road with the Foo Fighters, drummer Josh Freese has announced his departure from the band in a characteristically humorous and self-aware Instagram post. Known for his long-standing work with acts such as Nine Inch Nails, Devo, and A Perfect Circle, Freese had joined the Foo Fighters in 2023 as a touring member following the death of Taylor Hawkins.
The post, which went live on May 16, shows Josh Freese walking away from a Foo Fighters-branded road case while whistling the opening melody of “My Hero.” In his caption, the drummer clarified that he was choosing to speak out before any official word might surface, though he admitted he wasn’t sure if such an announcement was even coming. “I’ve decided to post this before some ‘other’ announcement is made (and to be clear, I don’t know if there even is one),” he wrote.
While the message did not include a definitive reason for his exit, Freese, who has often balanced professional intensity with comedic flair, included a playful list of ten tongue-in-cheek explanations for why he may have been let go. Among them: singing backing vocals into his snare drum mic during performances of “Best of You,” speeding up songs by 20 beats per minute to keep things exciting, and referring to frontman Dave Grohl by his full name, “David Eric Grohl,” during rehearsals.
He continued the humorous streak with fictional grievances, such as refusing to grow a beard, allowing his poodles to roam during soundchecks, and covertly swapping Grohl’s coffee with decaf in what he dubbed a “social experiment.” He also joked about spamming the band’s group chat with Minion memes and noted that the group may have decided one “fun drummer” was enough, an obvious nod to the legacy of Hawkins. Other imagined infractions included persistently whistling “My Hero” backstage and calling the band “The Foo” in interviews.
Despite the comedic tone, Freese’s message also reflected genuine appreciation. “I love those guys and had a blast,” he added, while also hinting at his desire to move forward. A self-described freelancer at heart, Freese suggested he was ready for his next chapter.
The Foo Fighters have yet to confirm any lineup changes or announce who might fill the drummer role on upcoming dates. Freese’s departure has reignited speculation among fans, with many wondering whether Shane Hawkins, the teenage son of the late Taylor Hawkins, could be in line to take over.
Until any official word emerges, Freese’s farewell stands as a lighthearted and gracious sign-off from a drummer who brought both musical precision and levity to one of rock’s most enduring acts. His approach to leaving neither bitter nor overly formal, was emblematic of his career: professional, self-aware, and never without a sense of humor.