Sid Wilson Permanently Removed From Slipknot After 25 Years With the Band

Sid Wilson, Slipknot's DJ and keyboardist for over two decades, has been permanently removed from the band. Wilson received notification of his departure late Friday afternoon, according to sources with direct knowledge of the decision. The band has not publicly disclosed the reason for the removal.

The Departure

Wilson's exit marks a significant moment for Slipknot, which formed in Des Moines, Iowa in 1995. The musician joined the group in 1998, completing the iconic nine-member lineup that defined the band's early era and secured their self-titled debut album release through Roadrunner Records in 1999. His departure comes approximately 25 years after he first connected with the ensemble, making him one of the longest-serving members to leave the organization.

The timing of the announcement follows Wilson's personal life changes. He and television personality Kelly Osbourne called off their engagement in March, ending a relationship that had drawn public attention. At the time of their split, sources suggested a potential reconciliation remained possible, though no such developments have emerged since their separation.

A Band Marked by Transition

Slipknot has experienced considerable lineup changes over its three-decade history. The band lost two members to death: bassist Paul Gray died from a drug overdose in 2010, and original drummer Joey Jordison passed away in his sleep in 2021. Percussionist Chris Fehn and sampler Craig Jones have also departed from the ensemble in recent years. Wilson's removal represents another significant shift in the group's composition, leaving the band with an altered membership for upcoming projects.

Wilson selected the number zero as his band designation, explaining that the numeral represented both absolute filth and a clean slate—a fitting choice for an artist who helped define the band's sonic identity through keyboards and sampling. His identity as part of the original nine-member configuration established during the late 1990s remains central to Slipknot's legacy, despite his current status outside the organization.

Neither Wilson nor official band representatives have provided statements regarding the separation. The absence of public comment from either party has left the specific circumstances surrounding his removal undisclosed.