Josh Freese has admitted he remains completely in the dark about why his time with Foo Fighters came to an abrupt end. The veteran drummer, who joined the band in 2023 following the death of Taylor Hawkins, revealed that he was dismissed without explanation — a situation he’s described as confusing, disappointing and emotionally difficult.
Speaking candidly, Freese said the decision came suddenly and without warning. According to him, there was no prior conversation about performance issues, creative differences or long-term plans. One day he was a member of one of the world’s biggest rock bands; the next, he was told his services were no longer needed — with no reason given. For a musician with decades of experience at the highest level, the silence has been the hardest part to process.
Freese emphasized that he gave everything he had to the role, fully aware of the emotional weight that came with stepping into Hawkins’ place. Rather than trying to replace Taylor, Freese approached the gig with respect — aiming to support the band and honor Hawkins’ legacy while helping Foo Fighters move forward during an incredibly sensitive chapter. He noted that the shows were powerful, the crowds were supportive and, from his perspective, things appeared to be working.
Despite the unexpected dismissal, Freese made it clear there’s no bitterness toward the band. He acknowledged how complex and personal the situation must be for Foo Fighters, particularly for Dave Grohl, and said he understands that decisions like this can be driven by factors that aren’t easily explained. Still, not knowing the reason has left him searching for closure.
The drummer also pointed out that this experience is unusual in his long career. Known for his work with acts like Nine Inch Nails, A Perfect Circle, Devo, The Vandals and Guns N’ Roses, Freese said he’s rarely been let go from a band — and never without at least some explanation. That history makes this particular exit stand out as especially puzzling.
For now, Freese says he’s focused on moving forward rather than dwelling on unanswered questions. While the Foo Fighters chapter ended sooner than expected, his reputation as one of rock’s most reliable and respected drummers remains intact. Even so, the situation underscores how unpredictable life inside major bands can be — and how some endings arrive without clarity, even when the performances themselves seemed solid.
