The lineup of Cradle of Filth is undergoing major changes as both keyboardist/backing vocalist Zoe Marie Federoff and her husband, guitarist Marek “Ashok” Šmerda, prepare to exit the band.
Speculation began swirling after the band announced that Federoff would be leaving their South American tour midway. Hours before the official statement, she had written on her personal Facebook page about the exhausting schedule, telling fans in São Paulo:
“São Paulo fans – we’ve barely slept in 3 days. Lobby call is a few hours after each show ends. I’m trying not to lose my voice. I’m sorry for skipping photos and signings outside the hotel. I need sleep or the show can’t go on. Thank you for hosting us in your beautiful country.”
Shortly afterwards, Federoff confirmed her departure: “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.”
We were already planning to leave the band later this year. Certain events have sped that up for me.
Zoe Marie Federoff
With her exit came widespread speculation, particularly because she is married to guitarist Ashok. Some questioned whether personal issues were behind the decision. Federoff addressed the rumours directly, firmly denying any suggestion of infidelity:
“Ashok isn’t cheating. While the turmoil of being in the band has taken its toll on us, we remain very much certain that we love each other. Please be kind to my husband. He is a good man.”
She went on to reveal that Ashok himself will also be leaving Cradle of Filth, writing: “We were already planning to leave the band later this year. Certain events have sped that up for me.”
For now, the couple has chosen not to elaborate further on the reasons behind their departure. Federoff concluded: “At this time there is nothing further I wish to clarify and I’d appreciate keeping the ugly rumors off my page and out of my inbox.”
Cradle of Filth are currently continuing their Screaming of the Americas tour with replacement backing vocalist Kelsey Peters, but the dual departure of Federoff and Ashok marks a significant shift in the band’s lineup.
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