The Who Reportedly Parts Ways With Longtime Drummer Zak Starkey

The Who reportedly confirmed the departure of longtime drummer Zak Starkey. The decision to part ways followed the legendary band’s Teen Cancer Trust benefit concerts last month at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Starkey joined The Who in 1996 for their Quadrophenia Tour and remained in the position most prominently held by the late Keith Moon. Starkey, whose father is The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, has also performed with Johnny Marr, Mantra of the Cosmos and others, including Oasis, who will reunite later this year.

According to British news outlet The Mirror, a representative of The Who shared the following statement regarding Starkey’s exit:

“The band made a collective decision to part ways with Zak after this round of shows at the Royal Albert Hall. They have nothing but admiration for him and wish him the very best for his future.”

The Who, whose lineup includes co-founding frontman Roger Daltrey and guitarist Pete Townshend, will perform next in Italy with shows scheduled on July 20 at Padua’s Stadio Euganeo and on July 22 at Milan’s SNAI San Siro Racecourse.