Fans hoping to see Meg White return to the spotlight were disappointed when the drummer and former co-frontwoman of The White Stripes did not attend the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Her longtime bandmate and ex-husband, Jack White, accepted the honor on behalf of the legendary two-piece rock duo, sharing a heartfelt message from Meg with the Los Angeles audience.

The White Stripes, best known for hits like “Seven Nation Army” and “Fell in Love With a Girl,” officially split in 2011. Despite her absence, Meg, 50, was recognized for her instrumental role in shaping the band’s sound and image, making her the third female drummer ever inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, according to Rolling Stone.

Jack White Speaks on Behalf of Meg White

Introduced by Iggy Pop, who paid tribute to Meg’s contributions and charisma, Jack White took the stage at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on November 8, 2025, to honor the duo. Pop described Meg as a “timeless beauty” and praised her drumming skills, noting that her support helped propel the band’s success.

Jack shared that he had recently spoken with Meg, who sent a message of gratitude for fans:

“I spoke with Meg White the other day, and she said that she’s very sorry she couldn’t make it here tonight, but she wanted me to tell you that she’s very grateful. And to all of the folks who supported her in all the years, it really means a lot to her.”

Meg even helped Jack prepare his speech, checking it for punctuation and corrections, highlighting her ongoing involvement despite remaining private.

Private Life and Rare Appearances

Meg White has stayed largely out of the public eye since The White Stripes disbanded nearly 15 years ago. Even during the band’s active years, she was known as the more private half of the duo. Her absence at the induction ceremony is consistent with her preference for privacy, making this moment a rare opportunity for fans to hear about her thoughts directly through Jack.

Jack also shared a personal anecdote from their early days, recalling moments in Detroit when animals would inexplicably stare at them:

“Even at the Detroit Zoo, an elephant did the exact same thing one time. She just wanted me to tell you that.”

He concluded his speech with a nod to the sibling-like dynamic the band maintained throughout their career:

“My sister thanks you, and I thank you.”

Tributes and Performances at the Ceremony

The induction ceremony featured tributes from artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Feist, and Twenty One Pilots, highlighting the lasting influence of The White Stripes. Rodrigo, who performed “We Are Going to Be Friends” alongside Feist, acknowledged Meg directly on Instagram:

“Thank u Jack and Meg for being the best band ever!!!!!!!”

This tribute underscores the band’s enduring impact on a new generation of musicians and fans.

The White Stripes’ Enduring Legacy

Formed in Detroit, The White Stripes’ minimalist two-piece format, signature red-white-black aesthetic, and raw garage rock sound left an indelible mark on 21st-century rock. Meg White’s precise and understated drumming was essential to the band’s unique style and continues to influence drummers worldwide.

Though Meg stayed away from the ceremony, her legacy remains central to The White Stripes’ story and Jack White’s ongoing celebration of their music.