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Former drummer of popular 2000s rock band dead at age 44

Former drummer of popular 2000s rock band dead at age 44

By Kevin Harson

Lifestyle

Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek's network of contributors

Bob Bryar, the former drummer of popular 2000s alternative rock band My Chemical Romance, has tragically died at the age of 44.

Bryar, who was the band's longest-serving drummer, was found dead in his Tennessee home on Tuesday, November 26, after being last seen earlier that month. His cause of death is currently unknown.

According to TMZ, authorities have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, and Bryar's personal belongings, including musical equipment and weapons, were not taken. Animal control was reportedly called to remove a pair of dogs from the home after Bryar's body was discovered in a decomposed state. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Bob Bryar
Ray Toro, Gerard Way, Frank Iero, Mikey Way and Bob Bryar of My Chemical Romance. Bryar has tragically passed away at the age of 44. Ray Toro, Gerard Way, Frank Iero, Mikey Way and Bob Bryar of My Chemical Romance. Bryar has tragically passed away at the age of 44. Carley Margolis/FilmMagic

Bryar joined My Chemical Romance in 2004, replacing the band's original drummer, Matt Pelissier, after the release of their second album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. Bryar played a significant role in the band's success, contributing to the creation of The Black Parade, perhaps considered the most iconic album by the rock group.

He also helped in writing their 2010 album Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys, though he left the band in March of that year –– before the album's release.

Though My Chemical Romance has been back in the zeitgeist as of late, especially since their 2019 reunion (and subsequent tour, which didn't actually kick off until 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic) announced a series of 2025 stadium shows, performing The Black Parade in full. However, Bryar was not scheduled to perform with the band.

Currently, My Chemical Romance consists of lead singer Gerard Way, lead guitarist Ray Toro, rhythm guitarist Frank Iero, bassist (and also Gerard's brother) Mikey Way, and current drummer, Jarrod Alexander.

Before announcing their new tour, the band reunited in Las Vegas, Nevada back in mid-October, headlining the 2024 When We Were Young Festival. They played The Black Parade from front to back, marking their second time performing at the festival. (MCR performed at WWWYF its first year in 2022, headlining the festival with Paramore.)

Their 10-city tour will begin on July 11, 2025, in Seattle.

Originally published by newsweek.com. Syndicated material does not necessarily reflect the views of Grazia British.

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