The musical world is mourning the loss of the original Bee Gees drummer, who passed away on Monday, November 18, 2024.
The Best of the Bee Gees Facebook page announced that Colin “Smiley” Petersen died at the age of 78. They wrote, “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen. He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care, and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace.”
Colin was a cherished member whose contributions shaped the iconic sound of the Bee Gees. Born in Kingaroy, Queensland, Australia, he gained international fame as a child actor before becoming a pivotal figure in the Bee Gees.
Childhood portrait of Australian musician Colin Petersen pictured in London on July 25, 1956 | Source: Getty Images
His early acting career included starring roles in the iconic 1956 Australian film “Smiley” and other international productions such as “The Scamp” (1957) and “A Cry From the Streets” (1958). By his teenage years, Colin had shifted his focus to music, eventually becoming the Bee Gees’ drummer and the group’s fourth official member.
The poster for the film “Smiley,” starring Chips Rafferty, Bruce Archer, Colin Petersen, Ralph Richardson, Jocelyn Hernfield, and John McCallum, circa 1956 | Source: Getty Images
His drumming was instrumental in crafting the Bee Gees’ signature sound, featuring on four of their albums and several #1 hits, including “Massachusetts,” “To Love Somebody,” and “I Started a Joke.”
Colin reflected on his legacy, saying, “It’s wonderful that these incredible songs live on through the Best of the Bee Gees, and I am thrilled to add another dimension by sharing my memories.”
British musical group The Bee Gees (L-R) Barry Gibb, Colin Petersen, Vince Melouney (sitting in front), Maurice Gibb, and Robin Gibb, photographed in London, England, circa 1968 | Source: Getty Images
The Bee Gees’ official website described Colin as “a much loved ‘family’ member of the troupe, holding our audiences spellbound with his stories of the lead role in the iconic Australian film “Smiley,” as the drummer in the original Bee Gees, and performing with the Best of the Bee Gees regularly for the last five years.”
Australian musician Colin Petersen leans on the bonnet of his Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 in London in March 1969 | Source: Getty Images
Manager Greg Shaw shared, “His endearing nature and unabashed storytelling added unique perspectives to the shows and he was loved on and off stage. It was an [honor] to have called him my friend.”
Fellow bandmate Evan Webster added, “Our lives were enriched the moment Colin joined our troupe. We shared years of laughs and music [traveling] around the country. He was such a fine gentleman and lived among us with grace and honor. He will be remembered forever.”
Barry Gibb, Maurice Gibb, Robin Gibb, Colin Petersen, and Vince Melouney seen in January 1969 | Source: Getty Images
Fans also expressed their sorrow and gratitude. One fan wrote, “I loved smiley and his movies as a child then was so happy to see him in the Bee Gees tribute band many years later..Colin/smiley was the highlight of the night, full of great talent ..RIP [sic].”
Another shared, “He was so vibrant on Saturday night in Bundaberg. He danced. He sang. He played those drums like he was still 25! Feel so lucky to have seen him perform and hear his incredible story. So very sad. [May] he rest in peace.”
Australian drummer Colin Petersen seated at a drum kit in London in March 1968 | Source: Getty Images
A third fan reflected, “So sad to hear of the passing of Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen. So many wonderful memories of Colin from our childhood in Redcliffe and his movie ‘Smiley’ and so wonderful to see him performing again with The Best of the Bee Gees. RIP Colin, you will be sadly missed [sic].”
In recent years, Colin became a central figure in the band, performing at their silver anniversary tribute show in 2023. His contributions to music and film will forever be remembered by fans and friends alike.
Colin’s family, including his wife Joanne and sons Jaime and Ben, remain in the thoughts of many as they navigate this difficult time.
Colin Petersen and his bride Joanne Newfield on their honeymoon in Majorca, Spain, in June 1968 | Source: Getty Images
The Bee Gees, formed in 1958 by British-born brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, became one of the most successful and iconic groups in music history.
Their rise to international fame peaked with the “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack in 1977, featuring timeless hits like “Stayin’ Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” and “More Than a Woman.” Colin, the band’s original drummer, played a crucial role in shaping the group’s early success.
Barry Gibb, Colin Petersen, Robin Gibb, Maurice Gibb, and Vince Melouney are seen in January 1967 | Source: Getty Images
The Bee Gees’ journey has been marked by both triumphs and tragedy. Maurice Gibb, the band’s bassist and co-vocalist, died on January 12, 2003, at the age of 53, after suffering a heart attack prior to abdominal surgery to remove an intestinal blockage. His family released a statement at the time, which said, “His love, enthusiasm and energy for life remain an inspiration to all of us.”
British pop musician Maurice Gibb performs on stage in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, on July 31, 1989 | Source: Getty Images
On May 20, 2012, Robin Gibb passed away at the age of 62 after a long battle with cancer. “The family of Robin Gibb, of the Bee Gees, announce with great sadness that Robin passed away today following his long battle with cancer and intestinal surgery,” read his representative’s statement at the time.
Robin was known for his distinctive voice and songwriting contributions alongside Barry and Maurice, helping the group achieve worldwide fame.
Musician Robin Gibb poses in front of the ocean in Florida in 1979 | Source: Getty Images
Barry Gibb, now 78, is the sole surviving member of the original Bee Gees. The legendary singer and songwriter continues to cherish the legacy of his brothers and bandmates.
Barry Gibb on June 30, 2017, in London, England | Source: Getty Images
The guitarist and record producer, whose music career spans 45 years, has been married to his wife Linda since 1970 and has five children. He remains active both in music and on social media, sharing glimpses of his personal and professional life.
On September 17, he posted a heartfelt message thanking fans for their love and support, paired with a throwback photo of himself and Linda.
The Bee Gees have undeniably etched an enduring legacy in music history. Colin “Smiley” Petersen’s recent passing serves as a poignant reminder of the talent, passion, and dedication that fueled the group’s remarkable journey.
As fans celebrate his life, Colin’s influence lives on — not only through the timeless music he helped craft but also in the countless lives he enriched with his artistry and spirit.
