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Former My Chemical Romance drummer Bob Bryar has been found dead at his home in Tennessee, just two days before Thanksgiving. He was 44 years old. At this time, the cause of his death has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear who discovered his body, according to reports from TMZ. The outlet also noted that Bryar’s body was “badly decomposed” when found, and Animal Control had to remove his two dogs from the property.
Authorities have stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, as Bryar’s music equipment and weapons were undisturbed when his body was found.
Bryar was last seen alive on November 4. He was the longest-serving and last official drummer for My Chemical Romance, having joined the band in 2004 after replacing Matt Pelissier following the release of Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. He played with the band through their subsequent albums until his departure in 2010.
On March 3, 2010, guitarist Frank Iero announced Bryar’s departure from the band, explaining in a statement, “As of 4 weeks ago, My Chemical Romance and Bob Bryar parted ways. 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.”
Bryar briefly reunited with the band in 2013 for the Conventional Weapons project but retired from music in 2014. After leaving the industry, he pursued a career in real estate and became an advocate for dog rescues and sanctuaries.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Bryar began playing drums at a young age and performed in both marching and jazz bands in school before studying sound engineering at the University of Florida.
In 2015, Bryar opened up about his struggles following his departure from My Chemical Romance, revealing on social media that he had become “the most depressed, angry, suicidal person ever.” He later shared that he was on medication to manage his condition but still dealt with lingering emotional pain.
Although My Chemical Romance had announced plans to tour in 2025, Bryar was not scheduled to reunite with the band. The current lineup of the band includes lead vocalist Gerard Way, lead guitarist Ray Toro, rhythm guitarist Frank Iero, and bassist Mikey Way.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out by calling or texting 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
