Former Slipknot Drummer Jay Weinberg Reflects on Sudden Firing

Weinberg says his dismissal from the band in 2023 'remains confusing' with no clear explanation provided.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:30pm

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An abstract close-up photograph featuring shattered glass, metallic surfaces, and dramatic lighting, conceptually representing the dramatic dismissal of a musician from a prominent band.The sudden and unexplained firing of Slipknot drummer Jay Weinberg has left many in the metal music world confused and seeking answers.NYC Today

Former Slipknot drummer Jay Weinberg has opened up about his sudden firing from the band in 2023, saying he was shocked and full of questions when he received a call from the band's manager informing him that his contract would not be renewed. Weinberg says the band wanted to put out a joint statement the next day, but instead posted their own statement online without providing any explanation for the decision.

Why it matters

Weinberg's departure from Slipknot was a high-profile shakeup in the metal music world, as he had been the band's drummer since 2014 after replacing original member Joey Jordison. Fans were left wondering about the reasons behind Weinberg's sudden dismissal, and the lack of transparency from the band has fueled speculation and confusion.

The details

According to Weinberg, he had been trying to schedule a surgery to repair a torn hip labrum, and had received approval from Slipknot to undergo the procedure after they finished a tour in November 2023. However, the morning after returning home from the last show, Weinberg says he received a call from the band's manager informing him that Slipknot had decided not to renew his contract. Weinberg says he was shocked and had many questions about the decision, but the band went ahead and posted their own statement online without providing any explanation.

  • In November 2023, Weinberg received approval from Slipknot to undergo surgery for a torn hip labrum after their tour.
  • The morning after returning home from Slipknot's last show in November 2023, Weinberg received a call from the band's manager informing him his contract would not be renewed.

The players

Jay Weinberg

The former drummer for the metal band Slipknot, who joined the group in 2014 and was suddenly fired in 2023 without explanation.

Slipknot

The popular American heavy metal band known for their energetic live performances and distinctive masks.

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What they’re saying

“I was shocked and full of questions. I was like, 'Why? What happened?'”

— Jay Weinberg, Former Slipknot Drummer

“It came without an explanation, no reason. It was confusing then. If I'm perfectly honest, it remains confusing.”

— Jay Weinberg, Former Slipknot Drummer

“Maybe I became a scapegoat for certain things.”

— Jay Weinberg, Former Slipknot Drummer

What’s next

Weinberg has since launched a solo career and has released two songs, though it remains unclear if he will ever rejoin Slipknot or if the band will provide further explanation for his sudden dismissal.

The takeaway

Weinberg's abrupt firing from Slipknot has left many fans and music industry observers puzzled, as the band has not offered a clear rationale for the decision. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation and undermines trust between artists and their fanbase, highlighting the need for greater accountability in the music industry.