Taking Back Sunday member quits band after 24 years over 'creative differences'

A member of Taking Back Sunday has announced he's quitting the band after an impressive 24-year stint.

Mark O’Connell joined the band in 2000 when Steven DeJoseph - who founded the band - exited the much-loved rock group.

The drummer's departure means the band is left with just Adam Lazzara, guitarist Shaun Cooper and John Nolan as members.

O'Connell took to Instagram on Tuesday (January 7) to announce his shock departure from the band due to 'creative differences'.

Mark O’Connell has departed Taking Back Sunday (Jason Squires/FilmMagic)

He wrote: "After nearly 25 years as the drummer of Taking Back Sunday, I want to confirm that I am no longer with the band. It’s taken me some time to address this. Thank you for your patience as I’ve reflected on how to share my story.

"First, I want to thank the fans - your love and support have meant everything to me. You’ve been the heartbeat of TBS, and a huge part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century. I owe it all to you."

The musician continued: "My departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own. Over the past few years, I’ve focused on my family and personal growth, including committing to my sobriety.

"Unfortunately, during this time, I didn’t always feel the support I needed from those I thought of as brothers, and creative differences made it hard to move forward together."

While it may be sad news O'Connell is departing Taking Back Sunday, he teased new music on the horizon from himself.

He added: "Speaking of, I’m excited to share that I’ll be releasing new music soon - both as a solo artist and with some old friends.

"That said, I’m grateful for the incredible memories with each of my bandmates - and all of you, as well as all the opportunities along with way. I’m choosing to focus on the good as I move into this next chapter.”

The band is certainly looking a lot lighter right now (Dana Jacobs/WireImage)

Many fans have flocked to the comments section of the social media post to express their shock at the news, while also wishing O'Connell the best.

One person wrote: "Drummer to drummer, I wish I could’ve met ya. You made a serious impact on my years of playing. See ya down the road hopefully!"

A second added: "Thank you for all of the wonderful memories. You will be missed. Wishing you all the best on the next stage of your journey."

While a third remarked: "Grateful to have seen you so many times behind the kit. Thank you for all the memories, and only well wishes for what is next for you both personally and professionally."

Taking Back Sunday are yet to make a statement following O'Connell's departure.