You won’t believe the backstage chaos rocking Cradle of Filth! Two members have quit, citing “unprofessional behavior” and “low pay,” but it’s their take on a certain pop star collaboration that’s truly raising eyebrows. What could possibly make a metal band call a project “foolish clown antics”?

A storm has erupted within the legendary heavy metal outfit Cradle of Filth, as two prominent members have dramatically departed, leveling severe accusations of unprofessionalism, inadequate compensation, and questionable management practices, all culminating around a controversial collaboration with a well-known pop artist.

The immediate catalyst for this internal upheaval was the abrupt dismissal of guitarist Šmerda by the band’s charismatic frontman, Dani Filth. This sudden decision immediately sparked speculation among fans, who initially surmised that a personal rift within Šmerda and keyboardist Zoe Marie Federoff’s marriage might be the cause, though both musicians have since clarified the true nature of their departure.

In a candid statement, Šmerda detailed his reasons for leaving the band, emphasizing the demanding workload coupled with disproportionately “low pay.” He also highlighted the significant stress inherent in their roles and a prevailing sentiment that the band’s hierarchy had ceased to prioritize or genuinely care for its members, a critical factor in his decision to step away from the established metal act.

Šmerda further elaborated on the long-standing issues that contributed to his exit, asserting that “years of unprofessional behaviour” from those in positions of authority above them ultimately led to their collective decision. These claims paint a picture of sustained managerial shortcomings within the inner workings of the celebrated heavy metal band.

Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, Šmerda’s wife and the band’s keyboardist, Zoe Marie Federoff, also exited the group mid-tour, a move that coincided with Šmerda’s departure. Šmerda had been a part of Cradle of Filth since 2014, while Federoff joined the ensemble more recently in 2022, contributing significantly to their live performances and recordings.

A central point of contention for the departing musicians was a much-discussed project involving pop superstar Ed Sheeran. Šmerda vocally dismissed this venture as “foolish clown antics,” noting its perplexing evolution from a proposed charity single for children to a for-profit release, then slated for an album, and now shrouded in uncertainty, which further solidified his desire to disengage from the project entirely, albeit with no disrespect intended towards Sheeran.

Federoff directly challenged the band’s financial transparency by sharing specific figures, alleging that she and Šmerda were earning a mere “£150/day currently and £25K a year roughly in this band.” She vehemently accused management of dishonesty and manipulation, claiming they attempted to “take money that belongs to us with no contract between us session musicians and him,” shedding light on alleged exploitative practices within the music industry.

Her statement escalated, holding the frontman directly “responsible for hiring this management and never advocating for his team, only himself.” Federoff contrasted their direct accusations with other former members who, she suggested, “try to tiptoe around this and only blame management,” underscoring her belief that management ultimately operates under the frontman’s directive and culpability.

These serious allegations of financial exploitation, managerial dishonesty, and a perceived lack of advocacy from the frontman cast a long shadow over Cradle of Filth, potentially impacting their reputation and future within the heavy metal scene. The unfolding music industry drama prompts questions about artist welfare and ethical practices.