Sex Pistols drummer Paul Cook talks potential reunion

Paul Cook performing with Man Raze, Download 2009
Paul Cook performing with Man Raze, Download 2009 (Image credit: Rob Monk/Future)

Sex Pistols drummer, Paul Cook has given his opinion on whether or not fans are likely to see the band reunite to mark its 50th anniversary in 2025.

Speaking to the Daily Record whilst promoting The Professionals’ - Cook’s post-Pistols project formed with Steve Jones in 1979 - current UK tour, Cook says, “I’ve hung up my go-between hat. I don’t get involved much any more.” He continues, “I’m still close to Steve but that’s as far as it goes. I can’t see it happening again for the Pistols and I don’t think anyone wants it to.” 

Cook goes on to explain that while the ongoing struggles between Jones and John Lydon are often hailed as the main obstacle in the band reforming, there’s more to it than that.

“It’s not just Steve and Johnny. There’s so much water under the bridge and so much history, I don’t think it would work out. Glen feels aggrieved at being kicked out. You’d think people would let go of shit but they don’t. The reunion stuff was OK. There will always be a crowd for it. But I don’t think it’s going to happen again.”

The band last performed with the full line-up of John Lydon, Steve Jones, Glen Matlock and Paul Cook in 2008.

Stuart Williams
Drums

I'm a freelance member of the MusicRadar team, specialising in drum news, interviews and reviews. I formerly edited Rhythm and Total Guitar here in the UK and have been playing drums for more than 25 years (my arms are very tired). When I'm not working on the site, I can be found on my electronic kit at home, or gigging and depping in function bands and the odd original project.