Bob Bryar, former drummer of My Chemical Romance, was found deceased at his home in Tennessee at the age of 44, just two days before Thanksgiving. According to TMZ, the cause of his death has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear who discovered his body. Reports indicate his remains were “badly decomposed,” and Animal Control removed his two dogs from the residence.
Authorities have stated there is no suspicion of foul play, noting that Bryar’s weapons and music equipment were untouched. He was last seen on November 4, the same day he posted his final tweets, including one that simply read “TULSI,” potentially referencing former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.
Bryar served as the drummer for My Chemical Romance from 2004 to 2010, becoming the band’s longest-serving drummer. He replaced original drummer Matt Pelissier after the release of their breakthrough album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. Bryar went on to record and perform with the band on their subsequent albums, including the critically acclaimed The Black Parade.
His departure from the band in 2010 was officially announced by guitarist Frank Iero, who shared a statement describing the split as a painful decision for all parties involved. Bryar later reunited briefly with the group for the Conventional Weapons project in 2013 before retiring from music in 2014.
After leaving the music industry, Bryar pursued a career in real estate and became a passionate advocate for animal rescue organizations. In 2021, he auctioned off his last drum set, which had been used during the recording and touring of The Black Parade, to support a Tennessee animal rescue center.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Bryar developed a love for drumming at a young age and performed in marching and jazz bands during school. He later studied sound engineering at the University of Florida.
Bryar had openly shared struggles with depression following his departure from My Chemical Romance, tweeting in 2015 about the profound emotional toll it took on him.
My Chemical Romance, whose current lineup does not include Bryar, is scheduled to tour in 2025. The band’s existing members include Gerard Way, Ray Toro, Frank Iero, and Mikey Way.
For anyone facing emotional distress or in need of support, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at 988, offering 24/7 assistance.
