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Pogues Drummer Andrew Ranken Dies at 72

The band confirmed his death in a statement signed by Spider Stacy, James Fearnley, Jem Finer.

Overview

  • Ranken died on Feb. 10, 2026, with the news shared publicly by The Pogues on Feb. 11.
  • No official cause was released, though reports note his long-term ill health, including COPD.
  • He joined the band in 1983, played on all studio albums through 1996, and returned for tours from 2001 to 2014.
  • Health issues kept him off the recent 40th‑anniversary shows, with Fontaines D.C. drummer Tom Coll filling in.
  • Tributes followed from fans and friends, including Victoria Mary Clarke and Siobhán MacGowan, praising his influence and character.