Cradle of Filth Members Quit Amid Contract Dispute, Dani Filth Responds

Cradle of Filth has experienced significant internal turmoil with the sudden mid-tour departure of keyboardist and vocalist Zoe Marie Federoff and the subsequent firing of her husband and guitarist Marek “Ashok” Šmerda. Federoff cited issues such as low pay, stress, unprofessional behavior, and management withholding proper compensation, including allegations of attempts to steal album advance money. Dani Filth responded with a detailed statement clarifying that the contracts given to band members were intended as initial frameworks rather than finalized agreements and acknowledged miscommunication about their nature. He emphasized that band members are allowed to work with other groups and expressed regret over the timing and circumstances but highlighted efforts to improve dialogue within the band going forward. Filth also disputed some of Federoff’s claims, suggesting her public statements were selective and taken out of context, while promising to address contractual language and financial protections more carefully in the future. Despite the drama, the band has continued its South American tour with a replacement keyboardist, Kelsey Peters, and remains committed to their fans and performances.