Rock
The Pogues star dead at 72
Andrew Ranken, a founding member of the legendary punk rock band The Pogues, has passed away following a period of ill health.
The Pogues are mourning the death of their longtime drummer Andrew Ranken, one of the band’s original members and a key figure in shaping their sound across three decades.
Ranken, who was 72, joined the group at its formation in 1983 and became an integral part of their rise, contributing drums, percussion, harmonica and occasional vocals through their most influential years. He remained with the band until 1996, later returning for their reunion era between 2001 and 2014.
Sharing the news on Wednesday (11.02.26), the band paid tribute to a musician they described as their “heartbeat,” writing: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Ranken, drummer, founding member, and heartbeat of The Pogues… thank you for everything… forever a true friend and brother. Our thoughts and love are with his family at this sad and difficult time.”
No cause of death has been disclosed. Ranken had stepped away from the group’s recent live dates due to health concerns, with Fontaines D.C. drummer Tom Cull filling in.
The Pogues returned to the stage last May for their first tour since the death of frontman Shane MacGowan, who passed away in November 2024 at 65 following complications from pneumonia. Surviving members Spider Stacy, James Fearnley and Jem Finer reunited for the shows.
Ranken’s driving, unmistakable playing was central to The Pogues’ identity, powering some of their most celebrated recordings and helping define the band’s blend of punk energy and folk tradition.
