It's a sad day for Foster the People fans.  Drummer Mark Pontius, who co-found the band over a decade ago, has quit.

The "Pumped Up Kicks" artists shared Pontius' statement to their Twitter on Wednesday, which begins with the drummer admitting that he has "struggled with finding the words" to make the difficult announcement.

"I guess I'll just rip off the band-aid and say that I've decided to leave the band I helped start 11 years ago, Foster the People," it continues. "As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our first record Torches, I've been flooded with memories of our sudden success, achieving all of my career aspirations in a few short years and the beautiful moments spent with my brothers in the band. What a privilege it all was, I'm eternally grateful for all of it."

Pontius explained how his life has changed since the band performed their last live show, which was before the pandemic shut down the industry. "I became a father to a now 2-year-old daughter who has really changed the way I feel about living my life on tour," he declared, adding that his priorities are now staying close to home to "watch my child grow up."

"I'm saying goodbye and moving on as of today," the 36-year-old closed, and sent his love to his now-former band mates -- Mark Foster, Sean Cimino and Isom Innis -- before thanking fans for their years of support.

Foster is now the only original member of the band, which formed in 2009 and achieved global success with its Grammy-nominated debut Torches, which produced the hits "Pumped up Kids," "Helena Beat" and "Don't Stop (Color on the Walls)."

Two additional albums were released in 2014 and 2017: Supermodel and Sacred Hearts Club, respectively.

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