Mike Portnoy discussed Josh Freese’s departure from Foo Fighters on Office Hours Live with Tim Heidecker.
He addressed what he calls the “Spinal Tap conspiracy” regarding recent high-profile dismissals of drummers from major bands.
“I think it’s the Spinal Tap conspiracy. I think nobody is safe. You have Ringo’s son was fired from The Who. You have John Bonham’s son was fired from Sammy Hagar’s band. I mean if Ringo and Bonzo are not safe, nobody is safe,” Portnoy said.
He provided additional context about the situation: “Jason Bonham got let go by Sammy months ago, last year I think, when he was out on the summer tour. It’s just crazy. It’s craziness.”
Portnoy then expressed his surprise about Josh Freese’s situation: “I don’t know anything about Josh Freese’s firing. I mean frankley, it’s shocking. I thought Josh was perfect. So it’s scary.”
He concluded with a humorous observation: “I’m in a hideway bunker. I’m in a hideway bunker on Long Island just because I’m scared for my life and career at this point. And I’m in like 15 bands so I have 15 times the chance of getting fired. The odds are very much stacked against me right now.”
These comments emerged following recent developments in Freese’s career with Foo Fighters.
The Los Angeles Times reported that Foo Fighters dismissed Freese in May 2025. He had served as their touring drummer for nearly two years. The band informed him they wanted to “go in a different direction” with their drummer.
The news was particularly unexpected because this marked Freese’s first dismissal in 40 years. Loudwire highlighted this fact in their coverage of his departure.
Freese handled the situation with characteristic humor. Ultimate Classic Rock detailed his response through a lighthearted Instagram post. He titled it “Top 10 possible reasons Josh got booted from the Foo Fighters.” The post included playful explanations such as whistling “My Hero” nonstop during tour and demanding a cowbell sound bath before every rehearsal.
Freese emphasized his perspective as a freelance musician. He acknowledged his experience working with multiple bands and expressed no ill feelings toward the Foo Fighters’ decision.
