Former My Chemical Romance Drummer Bob Bryar Dead at 44

Hitting the road with The Used as a sound technician, Bob Bryar found himself rubbing shoulders with the hit band My Chemical Romance. Although a drummer, Bryar watched as Matt Pelissier took the stage with the band as the original drummer. But unknown to Bryar at the time, Pelissier’s future with the band was coming to an end. And when it did, Bryar was right there as he became the newest drummer of My Chemical Romance. Part of the band from 2004 till 2010, news recently broke that Bryar passed away at 44 years old. 

Videos by American Songwriter

According to reports, law enforcement found Bryar dead in his Tennessee home on Tuesday. The last time Bryar was seen alive was back on November 4th. At the time of his discovery, the police explained how the drummer’s body was heavily decomposed. With dogs in the house, animal control was called to remove the animals.

As for the circumstances surrounding Bryar’s death, authorities believe there was no foul play involved given the drummer’s house was untouched. With no weapons or musical equipment taken from the house, the medical examiner continues to search for the reasoning behind Bryar’s passing. 

[RELATED: My Chemical Romance is Going On Tour in 2025, So Here’s How I Rank Every Track on ‘The Black Parade’]

Bob Bryar Not Set To Return With My Chemical Romance

Throughout his time with My Chemical Romance, Bryar helped bring albums like The Black Parade to life. Featured on the album, the drummer even offered his writing abilities to help expand the band’s popularity. When Bryar left the band in 2010, My Chemical Romance wrote in a statement, “This was a painful decision for all of us to make and was not taken lightly. We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors and expect you all to do the same.” 

Although taking some time off, My Chemical Romance announced just a few weeks ago that the band was going back on tour in July 2025. At the time of the announcement, the band didn’t add Bryar to the lineup of returning members. 

Fans took a moment to honor Bryar, writing, “Drumming on The Black Parade album is exceptional. RIP to a legend.” Another person added, “It’s a sad day for every MCR fan. He was so pivotal to their sound for so long.”

(Photo by Paul McConnell/Getty Images)

Leave a Reply

More From: Latest Music News & Stories

You May Also Like