Zak Starkey Exits The Who Following “Serious Medical Emergency”

After nearly 30 years, Zak Starkey has bid farewell to The Who.

The drummer, who is the son of Ringo Starr, confirmed his exit from the English rock band after a “serious medical emergency,” despite recent reports of drama within the 60-year old band.

“I’m very proud of my near 30 years with The Who,” he told People. “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.”

Starkey added, “In January, I suffered a serious medical emergency with blood clots in my right bass drum calf. This is now completely healed and does not affect my drumming or running.”

Following reports that singer Roger Daltrey had friction with Starkey during a recent performance in which he couldn’t hear over the drums, Starkey said he was “surprised and saddened anyone would have an issue with my performance that night, but what can you do?”

“I plan to take some much needed time off with my family, and focus on the release of ‘Domino Bones’ by Mantra Of The Cosmos with Noel Gallagher in May and finishing my autobiography written solely by me,” added Starkey. “29 years at any job is a good old run, and I wish them the best.”

Starkey’s exit comes after Daltrey revealed onstage last month that he’s “going blind,” adding: “Fortunately I still have my voice, because then I’ll have a full Tommy.”