On Friday, July 31, TMZ reported that long-time Slipknot DJ and keyboardist Sid Wilson had been permanently expelled from the group, per a source close to the band. However, Root, a guitarist for the nu-metal band, looked to dispel that rumor with a post on his Instagram stories.
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"Don't believe everything you read," Root wrote. "Stop. Think. Take a breath. Sit with it for a while. Maybe. Just maybe even wait until there's more information."
Despite what the source told TMZ, there's currently no information regarding Sid's departure, nor whether his exit will be permanent. Sid has been a part of Slipknot since 1998, joining shortly before the release of the band's debut single.
"The rest of Slipknot's current lineup — including percussionist and founding member Shawn "Clown" Crahan; guitarist Mick Thomson and singer Corey Taylor — has yet to comment on Wilson's reported departure from the group," PEOPLE reports.
Unfortunately for Sid, the uncertainty surrounding his position within Slipknot comes during a time when he's also battling uncertainty in his personal life. According to a source who spoke with PEOPLE, Sid and Kelly Osbourne recently called off their engagement.
"She's been in a challenging headspace for several reasons. It's been very emotional for her. She's had a lot going on," the insider said. "Ozzy's death still affects her deeply. She's very focused on being there for her mom right now. They're incredibly close, and that's been her priority."
The source then continued by explaining how both Kelly and Sid have struggled to balance their relationship in recent months.
"It's been hard for Kelly and Sid to balance everything, especially with different priorities about where to spend time. This has put a strain on their relationship."
Slipknot Will Likely Wait Before Announcing a Replacement
Usually, when a band decides to remove a member, they have an announcement, and often a replacement, lined up. Given that no one from Slipknot has spoken publicly regarding Sid's position within the group, it's fair to assume that everyone involved is remaining patient.
Sid continues to be a fan favorite with Slipknot's audience. Replacing him would be far from easy. As such, the group may choose to give Sid time to navigate his personal life before making a long-term decision on his future with the group.
