Foo Fighters may have already found their next drummer following Josh Freese’s departure, with strong rumours suggesting Taylor Hawkins’ son Shane is taking over the throne.
Less than 24 hours after Freese confirmed he was no longer behind the kit for the rock veterans, speculation has begun swirling about his replacement, pointing to a deeply meaningful choice for the band.
The rumours gained traction when respected New Zealand drummer and educator Stan Bicknell, who had been floated by fans as a potential replacement himself, posted a telling message to his Instagram Stories: “I’ve just been informed they are going with Shane, but you didn’t hear it from here.”
While there has been no official statement from the band confirming the appointment, Bicknell’s cryptic post has triggered intense speculation throughout the Foo Fighters community. With over 151,000 Instagram followers and significant standing in the drumming world, his comment carries considerable weight.
Shane Hawkins, just 17 years old, has already demonstrated his formidable talent behind the kit in several high-profile appearances with the band since his father’s tragic passing in 2022. His performance of “My Hero” during the Taylor Hawkins tribute concerts proved deeply moving for both audiences and bandmates alike, showcasing not only his technical ability but also his emotional connection to the material.
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In 2024, the young drummer rejoined the Foos on stage at London Stadium to perform “I’ll Stick Around”, further cementing his reputation as a drummer with skills and composure far beyond his years.
If Shane is indeed stepping into the full-time role, it represents a profound continuation of his father’s legacy within the band. However, it also places extraordinary pressure on someone so young, though every performance to date suggests he’s more than capable of handling the spotlight.
The band’s next scheduled performance is set for 4th October at the Singapore Grand Prix, where fans may get confirmation of the new lineup. Whether announced formally before then or not, all signs point to Taylor Hawkins’ son becoming a central figure in the next chapter of the Foo Fighters’ storied history.
