The Who part ways with Zak Starkey again

“A poignant time. Zak has lots of new projects in hand and I wish him the best,” says Pete Townshend.

May 19, 2025 - 12:05

The Who part ways with Zak Starkey again

A month ago, The Who gave the pink slip to Zak Starkey, their drummer since the ’90s, after two less-than-ideal shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall. They patched things up just a few days later but now it looks like Starkey has been let go again. Via Stereogum, Pete Townshend shared on Instagram today:

After many years of great work on drums from Zak the time has come for a change. A poignant time. Zak has lots of new projects in hand and I wish him the best. Scott Devours who has worked with Roger [Daltrey]’s solo band will join The Who for our Final shows. Please welcome him.

Scott Devours filled on for Starkey before and played with Roger Daltrey, so he’s familiar with The Who’s catalog.

The Who’s ‘The Song Is Over’ North American farewell tour hits NYC’s Madison Square Garden on August 30.

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