Charlie Watts pulled out of US tour following mystery ilnness weeks before death
Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80, just weeks after he was forced to pull out of the band's eagerly-awaited US tour
The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80.
Just weeks before his death, Watts made headlines when it was reported he was pulling out of the band's eagerly-awaited US tour, No Filter.
In a statement released by Bernard Doherty, it said the star "passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family".
Earlier this month, a spokesperson for Charlie confirmed his absence from the US shows, revealing that the rocker needed to 'rest and recuperate' following a medical procedure.
He confirmed the operation had been 'completely successful' but said the star needed time to recover.
At the time, the drummer joked: "For once, my timing has been a little off."
Charlie underwent the procedure after a routine check-up highlighted a problem, according to reports.
It meant that there were no plans for Charlie to make rehearsals for the band's 13-date tour of the states, which is due to kick off in September.
The band's spokesperson added "it's also fair to say no one saw this coming" following Charlie's mystery procedure and timeout from rehearsals.
Bandmates Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood all shared messages of support following the announcement.
A statement from today confirmed his death, which read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family.
"Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation.
"We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.''
Charlie has been a member of the Rolling Stones since 1963.
He remains the only member other than Jagger and Richards to have features on all of their studio albums.
After originally training as a graphic artist, Watts was introduced to Brian Jones, Jagger and Richards while playing drums in London's rhythm and blues clubs with the trio asking him to join their group in 1962.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.