Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith recently opened up about the band’s difficult decision to part ways with longtime drummer Nicko McBrain. He shared his perspective on the December 2024 departure in an interview with Metal Hammer España.
Smith’s comments addressed the challenging circumstances that led to McBrain’s exit from the legendary heavy metal band. He particularly focused on the health issues that affected the drummer’s performance.
“I think the Maiden drumming gig is one of the toughest, for sure. It’s very, very physical. And Nick, he had this stroke… He had a sort of a — not a full recovery. And that, unfortunately, really affected his playing,” Smith said. “But thank God he’s doing okay now. But, yeah, it’s a serious thing. And this is life. And let’s face it, we’re not kids anymore.”
The guitarist went on to describe the emotional difficulty of making the decision to replace McBrain.
“It was very difficult. Very difficult. I mean, he tried the tour before last we did, Nick did his best [to keep playing with Maiden], but he knew himself that he couldn’t do what he used to do,” Smith continued. “So, we had to make the change for the band to continue. And it was heartbreaking, really. Nick was such a big — and he still is, really — a big part of the band, and he always will be. He just had a massive presence. And people love him. We all love him. And he’s an incredible drummer.”
Smith’s revelations provide insight into what has been one of Iron Maiden’s most significant lineup changes in decades. This marks the end of an era for the band’s rhythm section.
Blabbermouth reported that McBrain had suffered a stroke in January 2023 at his home in Boca Raton. This left him paralyzed down one side of his body. This health crisis became a turning point that would ultimately affect his ability to maintain the demanding physical requirements of Iron Maiden’s performances.
The drummer’s health struggles extended beyond the stroke. Sources revealed that six years prior to his departure, McBrain had also been diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer. He kept this condition mostly private from the public and media.
Despite these challenges, McBrain’s departure doesn’t mark a complete severing of ties with Iron Maiden. Wikipedia noted that McBrain retired from touring after Iron Maiden’s 2023–24 world tour but remains a band member for studio projects. Simon Dawson was announced as his touring replacement.
McBrain’s tenure with Iron Maiden spanned over four decades. He joined the band in December 1982 when he replaced drummer Clive Burr. His departure represents the band’s first major lineup change in 25 years. This underscores the stability that has characterized Iron Maiden’s later years and makes Smith’s emotional response all the more understandable.
