Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain's retirement devastates fans

Iron Maiden's drummer Nicko McBrain is leaving the rock band after four decades together.

The musician, 72, announced his departure in a statement on the band's official website and his social media.

"After much consideration, it is with both sorrow and joy, I announce my decision to take a step back from the grind of the extensive touring lifestyle," the pro drummer began.

"Today, Saturday, December 7th, Sao Paulo will be my final gig with IRON MAIDEN. I wish the band much success moving forward."

While McBrain made it clear that he is only retiring from touring, the musician assured the fans that he will still remain "part of the IRON MAIDEN family working on a variety of projects."

The veteran drummer revealed that he will also continue with his ongoing personal ventures.

"I'll also be working on a variety of different personal projects and focusing on my existing businesses and ventures, including The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain's Drum One, TITANIUM TART, and of course, Rock-N-Roll Ribs!"

The group's manager Rod Smallwood praised the drummer for being an "irrepressible force behind the drum kit."

Smallwood also revealed that Nicko's replacement has already been picked, with the newcomer being announced in due course.

Fans honoured the drummer in heartfelt tweets for giving "40+ years of metal" while also being devastated by his exit.

"Bummed but congrats on a well-deserved retirement. Thanks for 40+ years of metal...Up The Irons!!!" one fan wrote on X.

A second user wrote, "'I knew this day would come eventually, but it's still incredibly sad. Nicko is awesome. Thanks for all the great music."

"An absolute legend, one of the most underappreciated drummers ever Thank you Nicko McBrain," said another while a fourth user wrote, "Gutted I won't be seeing you at the London Stadium next summer. Up The Irons!"

"You’re an absolute Legend, Nicko. Thank you for the decades of incredible music, humour, and dedication. I’m glad you are able to go off into the future, on your terms. UP THE IRONS," another fan wrote.

His decision to retire from touring comes after he suffered a stroke with partial paralysis in January 2023.

McBrain first went public with his stroke in August 2023, saying the episode left him "paralysed" down one side of his body and "worried" that his career with the band was over.

Four years ago, McBrain was also diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer, per a 2021 interview.

McBrain's exit means he will miss out on the band's 50th anniversary UK tour next year.