Original Beatles’ Drummer Pete Best Announces His Retirement From Performing

Pete Best, the original drummer of The Beatles who performed with the band in the early 1960s, has announced his retirement from appearances and performances due to what his daughter calls “personal circumstances.” News of Best’s retirement was revealed on X on Saturday (April 5) by the drummer’s brother, Roag Best, who shared a photo of the musicians together. “Well what an absolutely wonderful ride we’ve had. However, everything comes to pass,” he wrote. Pete shared Roag’s post, and wrote, “I had a blast. Thank you.” Best, who is often referred to as the “fifth Beatle,” made his debut with the band in Hamburg, Germany and was later replaced by Ringo Starr. Despite the harsh circumstances of his departure, Best reflects on his time with the band with no regrets. “I think I’m a lucky guy,” he told The Irish Times in 2020. “I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved as a person, of the examples I’ve set to people to get on with your life, to pick yourself up.” (People)