Death of Former My Chemical Romance Drummer Bob Bryar Announced at 44

Bob Bryar, who previously served as the drummer for the American rock group My Chemical Romance (MCR), has passed away at the age of 44 in his residence in Tennessee, as reported by US media. He held the position of the band’s longest-serving drummer, performing with them from 2004 until 2010. A representative for the band informed US news outlets that the “band asks for your patience and understanding as they process the news of Bob’s passing.” Bryar became a member of MCR following the release of their second album and contributed to the songwriting for the critically acclaimed album The Black Parade, which NPR Music described as a “defining album.” Bryar was born in Chicago, Illinois, and pursued studies in sound engineering at the University of Florida. His initial encounter with the band occurred in 2004 while he was employed as a sound engineer for an opening act during an MCR tour. After forming a friendship with the members, he took over from the original drummer, Matt Pelissier. The group subsequently released two albums during his tenure. Nevertheless, in 2006, he sustained third-degree burns in an incident on the set of a music video, which subsequently led to an infection. Bryar then experienced multiple complications stemming from these injuries, necessitating hospitalization for a staph infection. The band canceled several performances during his recovery period, but they commenced a world tour in February 2007. By November of that year, Bryar began experiencing wrist problems, leading to his temporary replacement before he rejoined for the final segment of the tour in early 2008. In 2010, the band issued a statement announcing Bryar’s departure, characterizing it as a “painful decision.” They subsequently released their fourth studio album shortly thereafter, to which Bryar contributed five songwriting credits. He officially retired from the music industry in 2021 and auctioned off some of his band memorabilia to benefit various animal charities. At that time, he conveyed to radio network ABC Audio: “I have too many wrist issues… it’s time for something new.” MCR disbanded in 2013, but later reunited in 2019. They are scheduled for a US stadium tour in 2025.