Dave Grohl Says Foo Fighters’ Split With Josh Freese Followed Months of Discussion

Dave Grohl has spoken publicly for the first time about Foo Fighters’ decision to part ways with drummer Josh Freese, saying the move came after extended conversations within the band and was shaped by the lingering impact of Taylor Hawkins’ death.

In an interview with Zane Lowe, Grohl said the separation “didn’t happen overnight.” Freese joined the band in May 2023, more than a year after Hawkins died in March 2022. He remained with the group for roughly two years, including an extended tour run. In May 2025, Freese announced on Instagram that he had been let go, writing that the band wanted to “go in a different direction” and that no reason had been provided.

Grohl said continuing as a band after Hawkins’ death was complicated. Hawkins had been Foo Fighters’ drummer for 25 of their 30 years, making him central to the group’s sound and identity. Grohl noted that while Foo Fighters have had four drummers over their history, Hawkins’ long tenure set him apart.

“Continuing on after Taylor was really complicated,” Grohl said, adding that the challenge extended not only to the remaining members but also to any drummer stepping into the role.

He described Freese as a highly accomplished musician with an extensive résumé, including work with artists ranging from Michael Bublé to The Offspring. Grohl said the band enjoyed touring with him and characterized their time together positively.

After the tour cycle ended, the band took a break. During that period, roughly six or seven months, according to Grohl, the members discussed their future direction. Those conversations led to a collective decision to move forward with a different drummer.

Grohl emphasized that the call to Freese was made by the full band, not by him alone. “All of us called,” he said, describing the conversation as appreciative but clear. The band thanked Freese for his work before informing him of their decision.

Following the call, the group chose not to issue a public statement. Freese’s social media post became the only formal acknowledgement at the time. Grohl said the band did not want to amplify the situation through press releases or interviews.

He referenced Freese’s later comment that he did not feel the band’s music fully resonated with him, suggesting that alignment at that level is essential.

Freese has since rejoined Nine Inch Nails. Foo Fighters brought in Ilan Rubin, also associated with Nine Inch Nails, as their new drummer. Grohl said the change has restored a sense of cohesion within the group.

The lineup shift comes as Foo Fighters prepare to release their 12th studio album, Your Favorite Toy, on April 24. The band recently performed the title track on The Graham Norton Show, though guitarist Pat Smear was absent due to a broken foot.

Grohl framed the transition as part of a longer process of navigating life after Hawkins. The band’s decision, he suggested, was less about conflict than about determining how to move forward after an irreplaceable loss.