The Enduring Legacy of the Sex Pistols: What Are the Iconic Punk Rockers Doing Today?

Even decades after their fiery and famously short career, the Sex Pistols remain an indelible symbol of punk rock and a pivotal force in music history. This British rock band, born in London in 1975, didn’t just play music; they ignited a cultural revolution, single-handedly spearheading the punk movement across the United Kingdom and beyond. Their initial run lasted an astonishingly brief two and a half years, yet within that blink of an eye, they achieved unparalleled success and left an influence that continues to reverberate. Their singular studio album, the provocative and iconic Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, stormed to number one in the U.K., cementing their place as anti-establishment legends. Though they formally disbanded in 1978, their story wasn’t quite over, as the band reunited intermittently over the years, delighting fans with their raw energy, until their final joint music release in 2008.

The original lineup that etched their names into the annals of music included the unforgettable vocalist John Lydon, better known by his snarling alter-ego “Johnny Rotten,” the driving force of guitarist Steve Jones, the steady rhythm of drummer Paul Cook, and the melodic bass lines of Glen Matlock. However, the band’s narrative took a dramatic turn when Sid Vicious replaced Glen Matlock just prior to their initial dissolution, adding another layer of chaotic legend to their story. The explosive rise to prominence of the Sex Pistols, their controversies, and their profound impact on youth culture are now being revisited in the highly anticipated TV miniseries Pistol, set to premiere on May 31 on FX on Hulu. As a new generation discovers their story, many long-time fans are curious: where are the members of the Sex Pistols today? Let’s catch up with Johnny Rotten and the other architects of punk.

Johnny Rotten (John Lydon)

At 66 years old, Johnny Rotten, whose birth name is John Lydon, remains one of the most recognizable and often provocative figures in music. As the quintessential lead singer of the Sex Pistols, his snarling vocals and confrontational stage presence defined an era. After the Sex Pistols’ tumultuous disbandment, Lydon wasted no time in forging a new path, forming his own highly influential and commercially successful post-punk band, Public Image Ltd. (PiL). PiL represented a radical departure from the raw aggression of punk, exploring more experimental, avant-garde sounds that fused elements of dub, krautrock, and industrial music, proving Lydon was far more than just a punk provocateur. With a constantly evolving lineup, including long-term members like Bruce Smith, Lu Edmonds, and Scott Firth, PiL has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and continues to be an active force in the music scene, touring and recording to this day. Lydon also ventured into solo territory, releasing his debut solo studio album, Psycho’s Path, in 1997, which showcased his diverse musical interests. This was followed by the compilation album, The Best of British £1 Notes, in 2005.

Beyond music, Lydon has always maintained a vibrant public presence. Known for his candid and often controversial opinions, he has appeared in various media outlets, written autobiographies like “Rotten: No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs” and “Anger Is an Energy: My Life Uncensored,” offering deep insights into his life and philosophy. More recently, he surprised many by appearing as a contestant on season 6 of The Masked Singer in the U.S., where he performed as the Jester, ultimately being eliminated in the eighth episode. This appearance offered a glimpse of a different side of the punk icon, captivating a new audience. In his personal life, Johnny Lydon is married to German publishing heiress Nora Forster. Together, they have taken on the significant responsibility of being guardians to Nora’s late daughter Ari Up’s three children, a testament to a deeply committed and unconventional family life that stands in contrast to his rebellious public image. Lydon’s enduring impact is further highlighted by his portrayal by actor Anson Boon in the much-anticipated Pistol miniseries, bringing his iconic persona to life for a new generation.

Steve Jones

Steve Jones, also 66, was the powerhouse lead guitarist of the Sex Pistols, his raw and distinctive guitar riffs forming the backbone of their sound. After the Sex Pistols’ initial breakup, Jones continued his musical journey, forming the hard-hitting punk rock band The Professionals alongside his former Sex Pistols bandmate Paul Cook and bassist Andy Allan. The Professionals released several albums, showcasing a more straightforward hard rock sound while retaining punk’s energetic edge. Always one to embrace new projects, Steve also co-founded the short-lived but memorable rock supergroup Neurotic Outsiders, an intriguing collaboration that brought together members of iconic bands like Guns N’ Roses (Duff McKagan, Matt Sorum) and Duran Duran (John Taylor). Though the band only lasted for three years and released one self-titled album, it was a testament to Jones’s versatility and connections within the rock world.

In addition to his band work, Steve Jones embarked on a solo career, releasing two notable albums: 1987’s Mercy and 1989’s Fire and Gasoline. These albums allowed him to explore a more traditional hard rock sound, featuring collaborations with various respected musicians. Beyond performing, Jones carved out a successful career in radio with his critically acclaimed show, Jonesy’s Jukebox. This popular program featured candid interviews with fellow musicians, often humorous anecdotes, and a diverse playlist curated by Jones himself, offering listeners a unique glimpse into the world of rock and punk through his distinctive voice. While the show ended its regular run, he continues to work as a disc jockey on local radio stations in Southern California, sharing his vast musical knowledge and personality. In 2019, Jones faced a health challenge when he suffered a heart attack, but he has since made a full recovery, demonstrating his resilience. His influential role in the Sex Pistols story is captured in the Pistol miniseries, where he is portrayed by actor Toby Wallace.

Glen Matlock

Glen Matlock, at 65, was the original lead bass guitarist for the Sex Pistols and played a crucial, often understated, role in their early songwriting. He is credited with co-writing many of the band’s most iconic tracks, including “Anarchy in the U.K.” and “God Save the Queen,” contributing a melodic sophistication that belied the band’s raw image. Matlock departed the band before its official disbandment, reportedly due to creative differences and a less confrontational personal style than his bandmates, particularly Johnny Rotten. However, his musical journey was far from over; he went on to perform with a remarkable array of other notable groups, showcasing his versatility and enduring talent. His post-Pistols career saw him playing for the power-pop band Rich Kids (featuring Midge Ure), the one-off reunion project Vicious White Kids (with Sid Vicious and Steve Jones), and touring extensively with the legendary Iggy Pop. He also contributed to various albums and tours with influential bands like The Damned and the supergroup The International Swingers.

In addition to his work with other artists, Matlock founded his own successful band, Glen Matlock & The Philistines, which released music from 1996 to 2018. This project allowed him to fully express his own songwriting and musical vision, often incorporating elements of classic rock and roll with a punk sensibility. Interestingly, due to the tragic death of his Sex Pistols replacement, Sid Vicious, Glen Matlock has consistently stepped in as the bass guitarist for any Sex Pistols reunion shows and tours, becoming the reliable anchor for the band’s later incarnations. This commitment underscores his deep connection to the band’s legacy despite his early departure. While details about his marital status are not widely publicized, Matlock remains an active and respected figure in the music community, frequently collaborating with other artists and performing. His formative contributions to the Sex Pistols and his subsequent career are brought to life by actor Christian Lees in the Pistol miniseries, shining a light on his significant, foundational role.

Paul Cook

Paul Cook, also 65, served as the steadfast and powerful lead drummer of the Sex Pistols, providing the driving, no-frills rhythm that was essential to their raw punk sound. After the Sex Pistols disbanded, Cook, alongside Steve Jones and bassist Andy Allan, formed The Professionals. This band further explored their rock and roll leanings, releasing four studio albums, including the well-received I Didn’t See It Coming, and numerous singles, EPs, and compilations until their initial breakup in the early 1980s. The Professionals later reformed and continue to record and tour, proving the enduring appeal of their sound and the camaraderie between Cook and Jones.

Beyond The Professionals, Paul Cook has maintained a busy and diverse career, collaborating with a variety of artists and bands over the decades. He famously worked with the hugely popular British new wave girl group Bananarama, contributing his drumming skills to several of their early hits. He also lent his talents to Chiefs of Relief, another band featuring Adam Ant guitarist Marco Pirroni. His drumming can be heard on countless recordings, making him a sought-after session musician. Of course, his musical journey has also included his participation in the occasional Sex Pistols reunions, where his foundational drumming skills were crucial to bringing the band’s classic sound back to stages worldwide. In his personal life, Paul Cook is married to Jeni Cook, who was a former member of the iconic British new wave band Culture Club. Together, they reside in West London with their daughter, Hollie Cook, who has carved out her own successful career as a solo musician, specializing in reggae and lovers rock, demonstrating a vibrant continuation of musical talent within the family. Paul Cook’s steady and vital contribution to the Sex Pistols and his subsequent musical endeavors are portrayed by actor Jacob Slater in the miniseries Pistol.

Sid Vicious

Sid Vicious, whose real name was John Simon Ritchie (and also known as John Beverly), joined the Sex Pistols in 1977, stepping in as the bassist to replace Glen Matlock. His entry was more about image and attitude than musical prowess, as he quickly became the visual embodiment of punk’s self-destructive, rebellious spirit. Prior to the Sex Pistols, he had co-founded and served as vocalist for the short-lived but influential band Flowers of Romance. Sid Vicious’s tenure with the Sex Pistols was brief but legendary, lasting until the group’s dramatic dissolution in 1978. His raw energy and iconic look became synonymous with punk rock, despite his limited musical ability and volatile nature.

Following the Sex Pistols’ breakup, Sid Vicious’s life spiraled into a tragic path marked by severe drug and alcohol abuse. His struggles were highly publicized and harrowing; he slipped into a brief coma in January 1978 due to an overdose. Later that fateful year, his life took an even darker turn when he was accused of murdering his American girlfriend, Nancy Spungen. Spungen was found dead from stab wounds in their room at the Chelsea Hotel in New York City. Sid was charged with second-degree murder, a case that captivated and horrified the public, becoming one of the most infamous true crime stories in rock history. He was eventually released on bail, but his troubles continued. Shortly after his release, he assaulted someone at a New York City club, leading to his re-arrest and a seven-week incarceration in Riker’s Island. Tragically, a mere day after his release from Riker’s Island in February 1979, Sid Vicious resumed partying and died of a heroin overdose at the devastatingly young age of 21. His untimely death cemented his status as a punk martyr, a symbol of youthful rebellion pushed to its most extreme and destructive limits. Sid Vicious’s chaotic and tragic life is a central component of the Sex Pistols’ lore, and his portrayal by actor Louis Partridge in the Pistol miniseries promises to delve deep into the complex figure he was.