Serj Tankian Issues Farewell Statement as He Departs System of a Down

In a significant development for fans of System of a Down, frontman Serj Tankian has officially announced his permanent departure from the band. This decision, revealed in May 2025, marks the end of an era for the Armenian-American metal group that has been influential since the late 1990s.

Tankian’s exit stems from longstanding creative differences and a desire to pursue his artistic vision independently. In his recent memoir, Down with the System, he candidly discusses his experiences within the band, including feeling “emotionally checked out” during the recording of their last albums, Mezmerize and Hypnotize, in 2005. He describes a period of passivity and creative frustration, stating, “Because of the push and pull, I became very passive.”

Despite his departure, Tankian holds no animosity towards his bandmates—Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, and John Dolmayan. He has expressed support for the band continuing without him, even suggesting they could find a new lead vocalist. “I’ve offered them that opportunity and been very supportive of it many years,” he shared in a 2024 interview.

Tankian’s decision also reflects his changing priorities. He has cited health reasons and a desire to focus on family and other creative projects as factors in reducing his touring commitments. “It’s not the top priority on my list in life,” he remarked regarding extensive touring.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Tankian continues to engage in various artistic endeavors, including solo music projects and activism. His departure from System of a Down signifies not just the end of his tenure with the band but also the beginning of a new phase in his multifaceted career.