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Duran Duran legend Roger Taylor confirms exit from band as drummer 40 years on from debut
“I’m going out on a real high.”
Gavin Elder
- Molly Moss
Published: Thursday, 12 November 2026 at 3:51 pm
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Duran Duran have announced that drummer Roger Taylor is stepping down from the band, following a worsening of his recently diagnosed tinnitus.
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The news was confirmed via the band's social media accounts, which included a statement from Taylor that said: "This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make."
The statement continued: "Playing drums in this band has been the joy of my life, and I'll never be able to properly thank the fans for the love they've shown us over the years. But the truth is that my tinnitus has been getting steadily worse, and I've reached the point where I must now listen to my body and my doctors."
Taylor added: "Figuring out the timing of all of this has not been easy, but I m going out on a real high.
"We've just returned from a hugely successful UK and European tour, which followed our second headline show at BST Hyde Park, our induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and a return to the studio with Nile Rodgers.
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"I couldn't have asked for a better final chapter, with so many special moments that I ll treasure forever. I move on with enormous pride, and with nothing but love for Simon, Nick and John.
Fellow band members Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and John Taylor added: "Roger is our brother. His drumming helped define the sound of Duran Duran from the very beginning and having him back with us since 2001 has been incredibly important to us all.
"We completely support his decision and wish him health and happiness. He will always be part of this family, while we continue exploring new and exciting projects with the band."
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Taylor joined the band back in 1979, performing on their early records, which included 1983's Rio.
He departed from the band in 1985 but returned for the reunion of the original line-up in 2001, writing and playing on six additional chart-topping albums and performing live with the band around the world.
Duran Duran were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
The band is yet to announce any news of a replacement for Taylor.
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Authors
Molly MossTrends Writer
Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.
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