Scott Devours Steps In as The Who’s Drummer Amid Tensions and Tribute
*May 23, 2025 — In what marks a dramatic shift for one of rock’s most legendary bands, drummer Scott Devours has been officially named as The Who’s drummer for their upcoming U.S. tour. The announcement follows the sudden and controversial departure of longtime drummer Zak Starkey, who had performed with the band for nearly three decades.*
Starkey, the son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, had become an integral part of The Who’s sound and legacy since joining in the mid-1990s. His departure, described as a “drawn-out separation,” has ignited both disappointment and speculation among fans. Internal tensions between frontman Roger Daltrey and guitarist Pete Townshend have spilled into the public sphere since the firing, though neither has offered a full explanation.
Devours, best known for his work with Daltrey’s solo performances, addressed the complex circumstances in a heartfelt social media post on May 19. “I understand and accept the reality that there are many lifelong Who fans who are absolutely gutted by the news that Zak is no longer on the throne behind the Who,” he wrote. “As a huge fan myself, there is a part of me that’s processing this loss with a heavy heart too.”
While the transition marks a major opportunity in Devours’ career, he is keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. “It really is a strange contradiction of emotions to have the greatest moment of my professional career also be one framed with some sadness and shadowed by someone else’s loss,” he continued.
Devours also referenced the band’s history, noting the similarly delicate moment when Kenney Jones took over after the death of original drummer Keith Moon. “I’m sure there are many fans who will not accept me or anyone on that throne except for Zak,” he admitted. “For others, perhaps the jury is still out. Maybe I’ll need to let the music do the talking?”
The upcoming American tour — slated to be the band’s last in the United States — is scheduled to begin in August. It will be an emotional and historic farewell for The Who, as Daltrey and Townshend prepare to play the band’s iconic catalog of hits for one final time on U.S. soil.
Despite the backstage friction, Devours is focusing on the task at hand. “I will be giving them every second of my time, every beat of my heart, and every drop of my sweat and blood,” he wrote. “This is my ultimate goal. But this tour isn’t about me or anyone other than The Who, which is Pete and Roger.”
As fans prepare for what may be the last chance to see The Who live in America, Devours hopes they can embrace the music and the moment. “Now I’m going to go throw up,” he ended his message with trademark humility and nerves.
Whether met with skepticism or support, Devours’ performance will undoubtedly be closely watched when the band takes the
stage this summer.
