The Who Fires Drummer Zak Starkey Again Ahead of Farewell Tour

London, England – Legendary rock band The Who have parted ways with drummer Zak Starkey for the second time in just a month, both parties announced on Instagram Sunday. The split comes less than three months before the band plans to embark on their farewell North American tour.

Guitarist Pete Townshend stated in his announcement that the decision was a mutual one and suggested it was time for a change. He noted, “After many years of great work on drums from Zak, the time has come for a change. Zak has lots of new projects in hand and I wish him the best.”

However, Starkey, son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, contested Townshend’s portrayal, claiming he was fired just two weeks after being reinstated. “I was asked to make a statement saying I had quit to pursue my other musical endeavors,” Starkey noted, adding that this was “not true.”

The controversy began last month when Starkey reportedly faced criticism for his performance during charity concerts at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Townshend explained that the band experienced communication issues that affected their on-stage performance. “Maybe we didn’t put enough time into sound checks,” he admitted.

Following the initial firing, details emerged of Starkey’s health issues, including a serious medical emergency earlier this year. Starkey expressed his dismay over the firing, saying, “I love The Who and would never have quit,” and emphasized that his other projects had never interfered with the band.

In a recent update on his feelings about the situation, Starkey indicated he is moving on. He is focused on his new band, Mantra of the Cosmos, which features Oasis’ Noel Gallagher. A representative stated that Starkey is “quite chilled about the whole affair.”

As for The Who’s future, Scott Devours will replace Starkey for the upcoming tour, which is set to begin in August. This farewell tour marks almost 60 years since The Who first performed in North America, but now only two of the original four members, Townshend and Roger Daltrey, remain.