For nearly thirty years, Zak Starkey stood behind the drum kit of one of the most legendary rock bands in history, channeling thunder and grace into every beat. But in early 2025, Starkey confirmed his exit from The Who following what he described as a “serious medical emergency.” With that announcement, an era quietly came to an end.
In an exclusive statement to People, the drummer—who is the son of Beatles legend Ringo Starr—reflected with gratitude on his long tenure with the English rock institution.
“I’m very proud of my near 30 years with The Who,” Starkey said. “Filling the shoes of my Godfather, ‘Uncle Keith’ has been the biggest honor and I remain their biggest fan. They’ve been like family to me.”
His words were humble, sincere, and heartfelt—offering a quiet nod to the history that shaped both him and the band. And while rumors swirled about internal tensions and band politics, Zak set the record straight: this departure wasn’t about drama. It was about health, healing, and closing a chapter with dignity.
The Legacy He Inherited
To understand the magnitude of Starkey’s departure, you have to understand the legacy he walked into.
The Who weren’t just another British Invasion band. They were explosive, rebellious, and visionary—defined as much by their aggression as their art. At the heart of that fire was Keith Moon, the wildly inventive, completely unpredictable drummer whose style helped define the very nature of rock drumming in the late ’60s and ’70s.
Moon wasn’t just a bandmate—he was family to Starkey. Literally. Known affectionately as “Uncle Keith,” he was Zak’s godfather and a towering influence.
“I didn’t have to study Moonie’s playing. I had lived it. It was in my bones,” Starkey once said in an older interview.
After Moon’s tragic death in 1978, The Who’s rhythm section never quite found the same alchemy again—until Starkey.
Becoming The Who’s Drummer: A Journey of Timing and Trust
Zak Starkey’s journey with The Who began in the mid-1990s, a period when the band had already cycled through a number of drummers. Though the chemistry had never been the same since Moon’s passing, there was hesitation about handing the sticks to someone so closely connected to the original lineup.
Zak wasn’t handed the job. He earned it.
Trained initially by Moon himself and later mentored by his father Ringo, Zak developed a style all his own: technical yet raw, energetic yet precise. His first performance with The Who in 1994 was electric. What started as a temporary collaboration quickly became a foundational partnership. Over the years, Starkey became an indispensable part of the band’s live shows and studio sessions.
He played with them at monumental events—from the 2001 Concert for New York City, honoring 9/11 first responders, to the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2010. His drumming featured prominently on Endless Wire (2006), The Who’s first studio album in 24 years at the time, and their 2019 self-titled follow-up.
Quiet Power Behind the Kit
Unlike his godfather Keith or even his father Ringo, Zak’s personality never demanded the spotlight. He preferred to let his playing do the talking.
Fans came to love him not just for his musical chops, but for the way he embodied both passion and professionalism. He didn’t try to become Keith Moon. He didn’t need to. He brought a fierce loyalty to the band’s history while creating a rhythmic identity that was unmistakably his own.
Bandmates Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend have long praised Starkey’s contribution. Townshend once remarked that Zak “brought the fire back to The Who.” Daltrey, in a 2006 interview, went even further: “Zak isn’t Moon, and he doesn’t try to be. He’s Zak Starkey—and that’s more than enough.”
A Health Emergency and a Turning Point
In late 2024, Starkey experienced what sources close to him have described as a “serious medical emergency.” Details have remained private, but the event appears to have prompted deep reflection.
For a man who has spent most of his life touring, recording, and performing at the highest levels, a medical scare isn’t just a setback—it’s a crossroads.
“It made me think about what’s next,” he reportedly told a friend. “And maybe it’s time to just… be still for a while.”
While fans speculated about creative differences or long-simmering conflicts within The Who—especially given recent tabloid whispers about band infighting—Zak’s announcement was a clarifying moment. There was no scandal. No animosity. Just a drummer choosing to step away on his own terms, for the sake of his health and future.
Reactions From the Music World
The response from the music world has been overwhelmingly supportive.
Drummers from across generations—from Matt Cameron (Pearl Jam) to Taylor Hawkins’ successor in the Foo Fighters—shared messages of respect online. “Zak Starkey is one of the greats,” tweeted Stewart Copeland, of The Police. “He honored Moon, created his own legacy, and did it all with class.”
His father, Ringo Starr, posted a simple yet moving message on Instagram:
Life After The Who: What’s Next for Zak?
While this marks the end of his run with The Who, Zak Starkey has never been the type to disappear from music altogether.
Over the years, he’s played with artists like Oasis (on Heathen Chemistry and Don’t Believe the Truth), Johnny Marr, Paul Weller, and his own band SSHH, formed with partner Sharna Liguz.
In fact, some insiders speculate that Starkey may shift focus toward production work or return to more experimental side projects once he’s recovered. He’s also been deeply involved in music education initiatives, particularly in Jamaica, where he’s worked with programs supporting young musicians.
If anything, stepping away from The Who may free him to explore even more personal creative terrain.
The Who’s Future Without Zak
For The Who, Zak’s departure is more than a lineup change—it’s the end of an era. He was their link to both the past and present. His rhythm held together their ever-evolving sound in ways that can’t be easily replicated.
Whether Daltrey and Townshend continue with live performances remains to be seen. The band has weathered many transformations, but with both founders now in their 80s, the loss of Starkey may signal the beginning of their final chapter.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
In a world where band exits are often mired in controversy or bitterness, Zak Starkey’s farewell feels remarkably graceful. He leaves not in scandal but in gratitude—not in failure, but in fulfillment.
He honored the memory of Keith Moon. He built a legacy all his own. And now, he walks away with the quiet dignity of a man who gave everything—and knows when it’s time to let go.
For fans who saw him live, who felt the pulse of his playing reverberate through stadiums, arenas, and hearts—Zak Starkey will always be The Who’s drummer. Maybe not the first. Maybe not forever. But for a generation, he was the heartbeat of a band that changed rock and roll.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Zak Starkey leave The Who?
Zak Starkey left The Who in early 2025 after experiencing a “serious medical emergency.” While some media reports speculated about internal band tensions, Zak clarified that his departure was related to health and personal well-being, not conflict.
How long was Zak Starkey with The Who?
Zak Starkey played with The Who for nearly 30 years, officially joining them in the mid-1990s and continuing through major tours, albums, and milestone performances.
Is Zak Starkey Keith Moon’s son?
No, Zak Starkey is not Keith Moon’s biological son, but he is his godson. Keith Moon was a close family friend and mentor to Zak. Starkey is the son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr.
What albums did Zak Starkey play on with The Who?
Zak played drums on several recordings with The Who, most notably Endless Wire (2006) and Who (2019), as well as numerous live albums and concert films.
Who will replace Zak Starkey in The Who?
As of now, The Who have not officially named a replacement for Zak Starkey. Given the band’s age and uncertain future, it’s unclear whether they will continue performing or recording with a new drummer.
Is Zak Starkey retiring from music altogether?
No official retirement has been announced. Zak has not ruled out continuing in music—he may return to production work, collaborate on side projects, or focus on music education initiatives once he has recovered.
What other bands has Zak Starkey played with?
In addition to The Who, Zak Starkey has performed with Oasis, Johnny Marr, Paul Weller, and his own band SSHH. He’s also made guest appearances with several other rock legends throughout his career.
Will The Who continue without Zak Starkey?
The future of The Who remains uncertain. With Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey both in their 80s and no immediate plans announced, fans are speculating whether Zak’s departure may mark the band’s final chapter.
Conclusion
Zak Starkey’s departure from The Who marks the end of a remarkable era—one defined by loyalty, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the music. For nearly three decades, he honored the explosive legacy of Keith Moon while forging his own path, balancing reverence with originality.
In the often turbulent world of rock and roll, Zak’s journey stands out for its integrity. He didn’t chase headlines. He didn’t mimic. He played from the heart, bringing a rare sense of stability to a band known for its chaos. His departure, though brought on by unfortunate health circumstances, has been met with widespread respect and admiration.
