Nine Inch Nails drummer Ilan Rubin appears to have quietly stepped into the Foo Fighters’ lineup, replacing Josh Freese just weeks after his unexpected departure.
According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, Rubin has been tapped as the new sticksman for Dave Grohl’s band following Freese’s exit in May 2025. Neither Foo Fighters nor Rubin have issued an official statement, but industry insiders and recent activity from Nine Inch Nails’ social accounts strongly suggest the switch is happening.
From NIN to the Foos?
The speculation gained traction after Nine Inch Nails posted a photo of Freese alongside a caption that read:
“LET’S FUCKING GO.”
The post has been widely interpreted as a symbolic baton-passing between Freese and Rubin, who have both worked with NIN at different points. Rubin took over as Nine Inch Nails’ touring drummer after Freese left in 2008. Now, seventeen years later, it looks like they may be trading places once again.
Rubin’s résumé is extensive. Beyond his long-standing association with Nine Inch Nails, he has drummed for Paramore, Angels and Airwaves, Danny Elfman and even the now-defunct Lostprophets. He also became the youngest inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2020, aged just 32, for his work with NIN.
What happened with Josh Freese?
Josh Freese joined Foo Fighters in 2023 following the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins. Freese quickly became a central figure in the band’s live shows, performing across their global tour dates through 2023 and early 2024. His departure in May 2025, however, came without warning or explanation.
“No reason was given,” Freese has stated, confirming he was let go from the band but offering no further details.
Despite the exit, Freese seems content to be returning to familiar territory. In a recent statement, he reflected on his time with NIN and expressed excitement about rejoining the group:
“Leaving Nine Inch Nails at the end of 2008 was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. My wife and I were expecting our third child, and I knew I needed to step away from life on the road…
Now, being back on tour with Trent and the crew – helping them do what they do best night after night – is something I’m incredibly excited about. To be part of that energy again feels amazing.”
He also encouraged fans to catch Nine Inch Nails’ upcoming shows, promising a memorable experience.
The Foo Fighters’ drummer position is one of the most visible and emotionally loaded roles in modern rock, especially in the wake of Hawkins’ death. Grohl, a drummer himself, is notoriously selective when it comes to band dynamics. Rubin’s combination of technical skill, studio experience and understated stage presence could be exactly what the band needs as they move into their next chapter.
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