Bandmates in Tears as Sabaton Drummer Quits Unexpectedly on Live TV
May 5, 2025 | Stockholm, Sweden – Fans of Swedish heavy metal band Sabaton were left stunned last night after a jaw-dropping live television moment that no one saw coming. During a special broadcast celebrating the band’s 25th anniversary, longtime drummer Hannes Van Dahl shocked his bandmates and viewers alike by announcing his immediate departure—live on national television.
The band, known for its thunderous sound and war history-inspired lyrics, was appearing on Sweden’s Rock Kväll (Rock Night), a popular primetime music show. Midway through an emotional retrospective segment highlighting the group’s career and milestones, Van Dahl, 34, visibly emotional, stood up and took the microphone from the host.
“I love Sabaton. This band has been my home for over a decade,” he said, his voice cracking. “But it’s time for me to move on—for my family, for myself, and for my future.”
The studio fell silent, with gasps from the audience and stunned looks from the other band members. Frontman Joakim Brodén appeared momentarily frozen before rushing to embrace Van Dahl, tears streaming down his face. Bassist Pär Sundström was seen wiping his eyes, visibly shaken.
The emotional exit comes just weeks before the band is set to embark on its massive “Echoes of War” world tour, leaving questions about how the group will move forward without their longtime drummer.
Fans took to social media almost instantly, with hashtags like #SabatonShock and #ThankYouHannes trending globally within minutes. In a brief statement released later on Instagram, the band confirmed the departure and expressed their support: “Hannes is family. This was a surprise to us all, but we stand by his decision and wish him all the best.”
No official word has been given yet on a replacement. For now, the future of Sabaton remains uncertain, but the bond between its members was made unmistakably clear—sometimes even in metal, there’s room for raw, heartfelt emotion.
