SERJ TANKIAN ANNOUNCES PERMANENT DEPARTURE FROM SYSTEM OF A DOWN

In a move that has stunned fans worldwide, Serj Tankian, the iconic frontman of System of a Down, has officially announced his permanent departure from the band after more than two decades. The announcement was made early this morning via Tankian’s official social media accounts, accompanied by a heartfelt video message and a written statement.

“This isn’t a decision I’ve made lightly,” Tankian said. “System of a Down has been one of the most important chapters of my life, but the time has come for me to step away permanently and focus fully on my solo work, activism, and personal well-being.”

The news comes just weeks ahead of the band’s highly anticipated Resurgence album release, leaving many fans questioning the future of the project. While Tankian has previously expressed creative differences with guitarist Daron Malakian, sources close to the band suggest that recent tensions reached a boiling point during the final stages of the album’s production.

In the video, Tankian cited “irreconcilable artistic visions” and “a need to follow a different path that aligns with my soul’s purpose.” He also made it clear that this is not a hiatus: “This is a goodbye, not a see-you-later.”

Bandmate Shavo Odadjian reacted with shock, posting, “It’s the end of an era. Serj’s voice is System. We love him always.”

As of now, the remaining members—Malakian, Odadjian, and drummer John Dolmayan—have not announced whether the band will continue without him.

Tankian’s exit marks the end of a defining era in alternative metal. For millions, his departure signals not just a shift in the band, but the closing of a powerful cultural chapter.

More updates are expected in the coming days.