Overview

• Pete Townshend admits the sequence of firing, rehiring and final departure of Zak Starkey was “a mess” and says he must tread carefully around Roger Daltrey to avoid further fallout.
• The band’s decision followed a misstep during a March Teenage Cancer Trust performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall where Daltrey publicly rebuked Starkey for overplaying.
• Starkey was first told he was out of the lineup in April, briefly reinstated days later and then notified of his permanent exit in May as the band prepared its farewell trek.
• Scott Devours, drummer for Roger Daltrey’s solo band, has been formally announced to handle drum duties on The Who’s farewell tour beginning August 16, 2025.
• Zak Starkey has expressed openness to rejoin The Who if approached, leaving the door ajar for a potential return.