Foo Fighters announced that guitarist Pat Smear will miss several upcoming performances due to a foot injury sustained in an unusual gardening accident. The band revealed this news on their social media platforms, humorously referencing the cult classic film This Is Spinal Tap.
According to the band’s post, Smear “smashed the shit out of his left foot,” resulting in multiple broken bones. As he recovers, Smear will be unable to participate in shows scheduled for January, and the band expressed their support for his healing process. “We’ll miss our beloved Pat as much as you will, but we want him fully healed and back on his feet as soon as possible,” they stated.
In Smear’s absence, Beck and St. Vincent guitarist Jason Falkner will step in to fill his role. The band has planned performances in various locations, including Mexico, Los Angeles, and Australia.
Upcoming Shows Affected
The dates affected by Smear’s injury include performances at the Guanajuato Feria Estatal de León in Mexico on January 10, 2024, followed by a show at the KIA Forum in Los Angeles, California, on January 14, 2024. The band will also perform at the UTAS Stadium in Launceston, Australia, on January 24, 2024.
This incident is not the first time Foo Fighters have faced challenges due to a band member’s injury. In June 2015, frontman Dave Grohl broke his leg after falling off the stage during a performance in Gothenburg, Sweden. That accident led to the cancellation of several shows, including a scheduled appearance at the prestigious Glastonbury Festival and two sold-out concerts at Wembley Stadium in London. Grohl later returned to the stage using a customized throne to perform seated.
As Smear recovers, fans eagerly anticipate his return to the band and the excitement of their upcoming shows.
