Following the sudden news that keyboardist and backing vocalist Zoë Marie Federoff has exited CRADLE OF FILTH mid-tour, frontman Dani Filth has issued an official statement on the band’s social media channels.
Dani wrote: “Hello Filthlings,
“A strange turn of events have manifested out here on tour for CRADLE OF FILTH in South America.
“Our keyboardist/backing singer Zoe Smerda has chosen to leave the band mid-tour, effective immediately.
“We, of course, wish her all the best for the future and we as a band will continue onward and upward as always with a replacement singer here in Kelsey Peters, one of the very talented CREWDLE members.
“In life, one cannot always foresee what the future holds for us, but we will remain ever-professional and continue on with ‘The Screaming Of The Americas’ concerts for our fans without allowing any of this to sully our onward trajectory.
“So, our South and Central American brethren, we will see you at the next spat of relentless shows.
“The shows have already been incredible in Brazil and we are just so exceptionally appreciative of your massive and passionate attendance, my friends and fiends alike.
“Long live the FILTH!
“Dani Filth, Buenos Aires, Argentina.”
The band will now continue their “Screaming of the Americas” South and Central American tour with Kelsey Peters stepping in on backing vocals and keyboards. Their next show is scheduled for tonight (August 24) at Palermo Groove in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Federoff herself confirmed her exit earlier today, writing in her own statement: “It is with deep regret I share that for personal reasons I am unable to continue this tour and continue in general with CRADLE OF FILTH.
Please respect my privacy and my family’s privacy. I will answer no further questions. Be kind to my successor. I wish her and my now former bandmates well.
At least, like Roy Khan said over a decade ago, God was there after all.
Yours,
Zoë”
Federoff joined CRADLE OF FILTH in 2022 and performed on the band’s latest studio album, The Screaming of the Valkyries, released in March 2025. Earlier this year, in January, she married CRADLE OF FILTH guitarist Marek “Ashok” Šmerda in what was described by fans as one of the most “metal weddings” in recent memory. Šmerda remains with the band.
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