Zoe M. Federoff leaves Cradle of Filth for personal reasons

Zoe M. Federoff, keyboardist and backing vocalist with Cradle of Filth since 2022, has announced her departure from the band via Instagram. The move comes in the middle of the current tour – for personal reasons, as she herself writes.

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It is with deep regret that I share that for personal reasons I am unable to continue this tour and continue in general with Cradle of Filth.

In her statement, Zoe expressly asks for respect for her privacy and that of her family. She does not wish to answer any further questions – a clear withdrawal from the public eye.

She also has warm words for her successor:

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Be kind to my successor. I wish her and my now former bandmates well.

Her post ends on an almost poetic note – and with a reference to Roy Khan (ex-Kamelot), who once responded with the words ‘God was there after all’. In Zoe's case, these words sound like a quiet conclusion, not only to a band era, but perhaps also to a chapter in her life.

Cradle of Filth themselves have not yet officially commented on the personnel change. It is not yet known who will succeed Zoe.

We at Dark Divas wish Zoe all the best for her future endeavours – wherever they may take her.

Following Zoe M. Federoff's surprising announcement that she was leaving Cradle of Filth with immediate effect, the musician has now provided further clarification via Instagram – and at the same time decisively rejected speculation.

In a very personal statement, she writes:

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Ashok is not cheating. [...] We are very sure that we love each other. Please be nice to my husband. He is a good man.

She also makes it clear that her departure had been planned for some time – but was accelerated by certain events. Zoe does not wish to disclose any further details at this time. She asks that rumours be refrained from and her privacy be respected:

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I would appreciate it if you would keep the ugly rumours away from my page and my inbox.

She particularly highlights her successor Kelsey Peters, whom she explicitly wishes much love:

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One of the greatest singers I have ever had the privilege of hearing. You will love her.

Just a few hours later, Dani Filth, founder and frontman of Cradle of Filth, responded with a statement from Buenos Aires:

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A strange turn of events has occurred here on Cradle of Filth's tour of South America. Our keyboardist/backing vocalist Zoe Smerda has decided to leave the band in the middle of the tour with immediate effect.

He emphasises that the band wishes Zoe all the best – but at the same time, the band will continue:

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We will remain professional and continue the ‘The Screaming Of The Americas’ concerts for our fans without this affecting our future path.

The remaining shows in South and Central America will take place as planned – with Kelsey Peters as the new live keyboardist and singer.