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Slipknot Confirms (and Deletes) Sid Wilson's Exit

PUBLISHED Aug 16, 2026, 3:37 PM ET

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Slipknot Confirms (and Deletes) Sid Wilson's Exit

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 26

Left 4%

Center 92%

Right 4%

Sources: 26

Slipknot has confirmed that longtime turntablist and keyboardist Sid Wilson is no longer associated with the band, ending a 28-year tenure. The statement was posted Aug. 14 on Slipknot’s social-media channels and Knotfest’s Instagram, then deleted. TMZ first reported Wilson’s removal July 31, citing a source with direct knowledge. Guitarist Jim Root initially urged fans not to believe everything they read and later said he did not know what to believe when the report emerged. TMZ subsequently reported that Wilson’s treatment of bandmates contributed to the decision, but Slipknot has not publicly confirmed a reason. Wilson has not publicly explained his departure. The statement did not announce a replacement. Wilson joined Slipknot in 1998, before its 1999 debut album, and became known as 0. His departure follows major lineup changes, including Craig Jones and Jay Weinberg leaving in 2023. No newer material development was located during the final freshness search.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

1998 — Wilson joined Slipknot before its breakthrough debut album.
1999 — Slipknot released its self-titled debut featuring Wilson.
2010 — Bassist Paul Gray died, reshaping Slipknot's longtime lineup.
2013 — Slipknot dismissed drummer Joey Jordison after years together.
2019 — Percussionist Chris Fehn departed following a royalties dispute.
2021 — Former drummer Joey Jordison died, further changing Slipknot's history.
2023 — Craig Jones and Jay Weinberg departed Slipknot.
2024 — Eloy Casagrande replaced Weinberg behind Slipknot's drums.
On July 31 2026 TMZ reported Wilson's permanent removal from Slipknot.
On August 1 2026 Jim Root urged fans to await additional information.
On August 3 2026 Wilson promoted merchandise without addressing Slipknot's status.
On August 14 2026 Slipknot confirmed Wilson's departure, then deleted its announcement.
On August 15 2026 Major outlets reported the band's deleted confirmation.
future — Slipknot may announce Wilson's replacement or continue without him.
future — Later statements may clarify Wilson's departure circumstances.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Slipknot fans face uncertainty over lineup and future performances.
Possible long-term US impact: Wilson's exit further reshapes Slipknot's original lineup and identity.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize official statements over rumors, screenshots, and anonymous social-media claims.
Most Affected: Slipknot fans, band members, touring personnel, promoters, and metal audiences.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 26
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 24

Explain Framing

Left: Coverage emphasizes interpersonal allegations while stressing that claims remain unconfirmed publicly. Center: Coverage focuses on confirmed departure, deleted statement, timeline, and unresolved reason. Right: Coverage emphasizes celebrity conflict, personal turmoil, and Wilson's alleged conduct toward bandmates.