John Tempesta has announced his departure from The Cult after two decades with the band, posting on Instagram. The drummer shared his decision with fans in a statement about his time with the group.
Tempesta marked the end of a 20-year period as the band’s drummer. He expressed gratitude for the experiences and support he received during his years with The Cult.
“After 20 years, my chapter with The Cult has come to an end,” Tempesta said. “So many unforgettable shows, experiences, and memories. I’m incredibly thankful to every single fan who was there along the way. Your support has meant so much to me.”
The drummer also looked ahead to what comes next in his career. “I’m looking forward to getting back out there, playing music and seeing where the next chapter takes me. Here’s to 2027! Wishing the guys all the best!” he added.
Tempesta’s announcement marks the end of his long tenure with The Cult. The move opens a new phase for both the drummer and the band.
Tempesta joined The Cult in February 2006 and became the longest-serving drummer in the band’s history. Before joining the British rock group, he worked with prominent acts including White Zombie, Rob Zombie, Exodus, Testament, Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society, Tony Iommi, Helmet and Scum of the Earth. He also served as drum technician for Anthrax’s Charlie Benante before spending four years as the band’s drummer, and later recorded three albums with Exodus.
With The Cult, Tempesta played on four studio albums: Born Into This in 2007, Choice of Weapon, Hidden City and Under the Midnight Sun in 2022. His final album with the group, Under the Midnight Sun, became the highest-charting Cult album of his tenure in Britain, reaching number 15 on the UK Albums Chart. Tempesta worked alongside frontman Ian Astbury and guitarist Billy Duffy during his two decades with the band.
The Cult announced a touring hiatus in October 2025, with Astbury and Duffy stating they would step away from touring for an undetermined amount of time. The band had been performing a North American tour that month, playing both their own music and songs from their earlier iteration, Death Cult. Tempesta’s departure comes ahead of any future plans the band may have.
