The Who Fire Drummer Zak Starkey Before Tour

Zak Starkey, longtime drummer for The Who and son of Ringo Starr, has been fired from the band for a second and final time just before their North American farewell tour. Starkey stated on social media that he was asked to claim he quit for other projects, but he insisted his departure was not voluntary. Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey cited the band's impending retirement and wished Starkey well in future ventures. The split reportedly followed tensions and Daltrey's frustration over drumming during recent Royal Albert Hall shows, as Starkey was recovering from a medical emergency. Scott Devours, known for playing with Daltrey’s solo band, will replace Starkey for the farewell tour. Starkey thanked fans and reflected on his nearly 30-year tenure as a significant chapter in his career.