Slipknot has announced that Sid Wilson is no longer a member of the band, effective immediately. The news was shared on August 14, 2026, through a social media post that was quickly deleted.
Why it matters: Wilson's departure marks the end of nearly three decades with Slipknot, a band known for its intense performances and distinctive masked personas. His exit raises questions about the band's future direction.
- Sid Wilson joined Slipknot in 1998, just before the band’s rise to fame with their self-titled debut album in 1999.
- Slipknot's announcement comes after weeks of speculation about Wilson's status within the group, fueled by reports of his dismissal.
- Wilson's exit follows a series of recent departures from the band, including Chris Fehn in 2019, Craig Jones in 2023, and Jay Weinberg in 2023.
Driving the news: The official statement from Slipknot read, "Effective immediately, Slipknot will no longer be associated with Sid Wilson. We wish him the best in his future endeavors." This message was posted on the band's social media accounts but was deleted within 15 minutes.
- TMZ initially reported on July 31, 2026, that Wilson had been permanently removed from the band due to behavior that allegedly mistreated his bandmates.
- Guitarist Jim Root attempted to quell rumors by posting on Instagram, advising fans to wait for more information before jumping to conclusions.
- Kelly Osbourne, Wilson's former fiancée, made public accusations against him, demanding child support and the return of her possessions.
State of play: Wilson, known for his energetic performances and unique style, was a key member of Slipknot, serving as both the turntablist and keyboardist. His signature number within the band was zero, a designation he chose to symbolize a clean slate.
- Slipknot formed in 1995 in Des Moines, Iowa, and became one of the most influential heavy metal bands, known for their elaborate masks and high-energy shows.
- The band achieved commercial success with multiple albums, including their 2008 release, *All Hope Is Gone*, which topped the Billboard 200.
- Slipknot has won one Grammy Award, for Best Metal Performance for the song "Before I Forget" in 2006.
The big picture: Wilson's exit is part of a larger trend within Slipknot, which has seen several members leave over the past few years. These changes come as the band navigates its identity and future in the heavy metal scene.
- In 2019, percussionist Chris Fehn left the band following a legal dispute over payment issues.
- Craig Jones, who joined the band in 1996, departed in 2023, followed by drummer Jay Weinberg later that same year.
- Slipknot sold a majority stake in their catalog to HarbourView Equity Partners in 2025, indicating a shift in their business direction.
What they're saying: The reactions to Wilson's departure have been mixed, with fans expressing shock and disappointment over the news.
- Many fans took to social media to express their feelings about Wilson's contributions to the band and the impact of his exit.
- Kelly Osbourne's comments added another layer to the situation, as she publicly called out Wilson for his behavior.
- Jim Root's message on social media suggested that there may be more to the story than what has been publicly disclosed.
By the numbers: Slipknot's discography includes several chart-topping albums and a history of successful tours.
- Slipknot's last album, *The End, So Far*, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 in 2022.
- The band has released seven studio albums since their inception, with multiple entries in the top 10 of the Billboard charts.
- Slipknot has received 11 Grammy nominations throughout their career, with one win in 2006.
What's next: As Slipknot moves forward without Wilson, the band faces the challenge of redefining their lineup and maintaining their legacy in the heavy metal genre.
- Fans are eager to see how the band will adapt and who might fill the void left by Wilson.
- Slipknot's next steps remain unclear, but they continue to be a formidable force in the music industry.
- Wilson has not yet publicly commented on his departure, leaving fans to speculate on his future projects.