Iron Maiden nearly retired when Nicko McBrain left the live lineup

Iron Maiden thought seriously about stepping away after Nicko McBrain decided to leave the touring lineup.

Bassist Steve Harris revealed that the rest of the Run To The Hills heavy metal icons discussed ending the band altogether after their longtime drummer – who joined in 1982 – played his last live show in December 2024, following a stroke the year before.

In an interview with Rock Candy, Steve explained: “Honestly, we did not really have an option and had to make the change once Nicko faced his health struggles.

“That was the reality, and we needed to decide whether we would keep going or not.

“Of course, there was already a tour booked when it all happened, and the rest of us wanted to carry on.

“But in the end, once we got through everything, it came down to Nick’s choice to step back, and we respected him completely for making that call.”

Nicko went through a minor stroke in 2023 that left his right side partially paralysed, which meant he could no longer perform as he once did.

He told Metal Hammer: “It was extremely tough.

“When it first happened, I thought, ‘That’s it, I am finished. I won’t be able to play again. I had a tour only three months away.’

“I spent a lot of time reflecting while in the hospital. My wife was my absolute rock, always encouraging me and by my side.

“I trained hard with strength exercises, unusual weights and stretches, and gradually built up my stamina again.”

For live shows, Simon Dawson has taken over on drums, while Nicko will still record in the studio with Steve, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Janick Gers and Bruce Dickinson for future projects.

Although Nicko has backed his replacement, he has been clear that he cannot truly be substituted.

During a summer concert, he told the audience: “Bless him. He is doing an amazing job, and I am grateful that you have all embraced him as part of the family.

“And even though he is not me – because no one can be – that is not meant to boost my ego or claim I am the best drummer for Maiden. Not at all.

“So thank you for accepting him into the family. They are doing a brilliant job out there, though Bruce’s timing wobbles now and then. But that’s nothing new.”