Less than 24 hours after Josh Freese confirmed he was no longer drumming for the Foo Fighters, we may already have our answer as to who is taking his place. And it is a name that cuts deep into the band’s legacy.
New Zealand drummer and educator Stan Bicknell, who was loosely tipped by fans as a possible contender for the role, posted a cryptic message to his Instagram Stories: ‘I’ve just been informed they are going with Shane, but you didn’t hear it from here.’ The Shane in question is Shane Hawkins, the 17-year-old son of the late Taylor Hawkins.
There has been no official statement from the Foo Fighters, but Bicknell’s post has triggered a wave of speculation across social media and fan forums. With over 151,000 followers on Instagram and a strong presence in the drumming world, Bicknell is not known for stirring the pot without reason. His comment has caught the attention of fans and insiders alike.
Shane Hawkins has performed live with the Foo Fighters several times since his father’s passing in 2022. His breakout moment came during the tribute concerts where his drumming on ‘My Hero’ moved both audiences and bandmates. In 2024, he rejoined the band at London Stadium to play ‘I’ll Stick Around’, showing skill and confidence far beyond his years.
If Shane really is stepping into the drummer’s role, it would be a powerful tribute to his father’s legacy. It also brings a level of pressure that few teenagers ever face. But every time Shane has been behind the kit, he has delivered.
The Foo Fighters are next scheduled to perform on 4 October at the Singapore Grand Prix. Whether or not they confirm the new lineup before then, it looks increasingly likely that Taylor Hawkins’ son is becoming a central figure in the next chapter of the band’s story.
Watch: Foo Fighters ft. Shane Hawkins Perform “My Hero”
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