Former Pearl Jam drummer Dave Abbruzzese has issued a public statement addressing recent rumors about a possible return to the band. This comes after the departure of longtime drummer Matt Cameron, which led many fans to wonder if Abbruzzese might rejoin the group he once helped define during its rise in the early 1990s. He addressed the situation directly and offered clarity on his current stance.

Abbruzzese, who was part of Pearl Jam during a critical period in the early 1990s, played on two of the band’s most successful albums: Vs. and Vitalogy. He joined the band in 1991, replacing original drummer Dave Krusen, and was with the group during its rapid rise to global recognition. However, by 1994, he had been dismissed, and the reasons for his exit were never fully explained by the band.

In his recent message, Dave Abbruzzese made it clear that there has been no contact between him and Pearl Jam regarding a possible return. He said the relationship has remained unchanged over the years and described the distance as significant. “There is no conversation. There has been no outreach,” he said, adding that fans deserve honesty about the situation.

He explained that his departure was not due to personal conflicts with individual members, but rather a mix of band dynamics and management decisions. “It wasn’t about hate or drama,” he said. “It was about the realities of the band at that time and choices that were made.”

Abbruzzese also discussed his life after Pearl Jam, stating that he’s focused on music, recovery work, and being a father. He acknowledged that his definition of success has changed. “I’m not chasing fame or headlines,” he wrote. “I’m committed to a good life, staying grounded, and using my time in ways that matter.”

To fans who have called for his return, Abbruzzese expressed appreciation but also asked for understanding. “It means a lot, but I’m not part of the decision-making process,” he noted. “I respect the band’s right to shape their path. It’s theirs to walk.”

He closed his statement by wishing the current members of Pearl Jam well and said he values the time he spent with the band. While he did not completely close the door, his message made it clear that a reunion is not currently in discussion.

As the band moves forward after Cameron’s exit, Abbruzzese’s role in Pearl Jam history is still quite significant, but a return appears unlikely.