Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett has complained about “disrespectful Twitter private investigators” fueling the rumor mill surrounding drummer Taylor Hawkins’ death. “I understand people are intrigued by this… but so much of what I’ve seen out there is so completely wrong,” Shiflett said.
Discussing fan speculation with Justin Jay on The Plug podcast, Shiflett said: “This case is very different because it’s so public and there’s so much internet snooping that people do, especially right after his death. All those Twitter private investigators… it’s all wrong. They’re wrong about everything, and that was really weird to watch.”
“Some people say Dave Grohl killed Hawkins”
He also explained that many of the rumors were false: “Taylor was a huge personality and meant a lot to millions of people around the world. So on the one hand, I understand the allure of it, but on the other hand, so much of what I’ve seen out there is so completely wrong. I mean, there are people who say that Dave [Grohl] Killed Taylor because he was dying for him to get the COVID shot. It’s just such crap,” the guitarist continued.
Despite the very questionable claims, Shiflett tries to keep his feet on the ground. He added: “I try not to pay attention to all that stuff because who cares? It’s just some chump on Twitter but it pisses you off because that crap is just disrespectful if you ask me.”
Hawkins has complained about the Foo Fighters’ tour schedule
Shortly after Hawkins passed away, ROLLING STONE published a statement from Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Matt Cameron (Pearl Jam) saying Hawkins had become increasingly uncomfortable with the band’s touring schedule. After this statement was heavily criticized, the two apologized for their statement. Cameron explained in a message: “When I agreed to participate in the article about Taylor, I assumed it would be a tribute to his life and work. My quotes were taken out of context and formed into a narrative I never intended.”
He also expressed his condolences on the death of his long-time friend and colleague: “Taylor was a good friend and a brilliant artist. I miss him. I have only the deepest love and respect for Taylor, Dave and the Foo Fighters families. I am sincerely sorry that I participated in this interview and I apologize that my participation has caused harm to those for whom I have only the deepest respect and admiration.”
“I thought this would be the loving tribute he deserved”
Smith then spoke personally. Taking to social media, he explained: “Taylor was one of my best friends and I would do anything for his family. I was asked to share some memories of our time with him and I thought this would be the loving tribute he deserved. (…) I apologize to his family and musical friends for any pain this may have caused. I miss Taylor every day.”
Taylor Hawkins passed away on March 25 in Bogotá, Colombia. A toxicology report was released in late March, saying several drugs — including opiates, antidepressants and marijuana — were found in his body at the time of his death.