Who Is Pat Smear? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Pat Smear, born on August 5, 1959, is a notable American guitarist best known for his work with the iconic rock band Nirvana and the acclaimed Foo Fighters. As of 2025, Pat is 65 years old. He emerged into the music scene during the late 1970s and has significantly influenced the rock genre with his distinctive style and contributions. His journey through music is not only marked by his collaborations but also by his unique presence in the punk rock community.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1959 |
| Age | 65 Years |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Pat Smear's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Pat Smear stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a weight of approximately 160 lbs (73 kg). While specific body measurements are not readily available, his lean physique is complemented by his energetic stage presence, which has captivated audiences over the decades.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Pat Smear has been quite private about his personal relationships. As of 2025, he is reportedly in a happy relationship, affirming his connection with a girlfriend who shares his artistic passion. Although he has not publicized her name, sources suggest she is involved in the creative industry. Pat values his family life, often emphasizing the importance of support from loved ones during his musical endeavors.
Shortly after the release of The Colour and the Shape, Smear quit the band. As Smear later explained, he quit mainly due to exhaustion from the band's relentless touring schedule. Smear's departure was also related to inner-band tensions that sprung up around Grohl's divorce from his first wife, Jennifer Youngblood, who was a close friend of Smear.
Grohl explained that he "begged" Smear to stay and Smear agreed to remain in Foo Fighters temporarily due to scheduled touring obligations, but only until a replacement guitarist could be recruited. Grohl eventually invited Franz Stahl, his former bandmate from Scream, to fill the lead guitarist slot.
Net Worth and Salary
As a seasoned musician, Pat Smear's net worth is estimated to be around $40 million as of 2025. His wealth primarily stems from his successful career as a guitarist, touring, record sales, and royalties from some of the most enduring hits in rock music. Additionally, he has accrued income through various artistic ventures and business investments, further solidifying his financial status.
Career, Business and Investments
Pat Smear's career is highlighted by his significant contributions to well-known bands like Nirvana and the Foo Fighters. After Nirvana's disbandment, he joined the Foo Fighters and has been a vital part of their success, contributing to multiple hit albums and global tours.
Beyond music, Pat has ventured into various investments, including projects in the music industry and creative ventures that align with his passion for art. His ability to diversify has ensured that he remains a prominent figure both on and off the stage.
Georg Albert Ruthenberg (born August 5, 1959), better known by his stage name Pat Smear, is an American musician. He was the lead guitarist and co-founder of Los Angeles–based punk band The Germs and a rhythm guitarist for grunge band Nirvana (which he joined as a touring guitarist in 1993).
After Nirvana disbanded following the suicide of frontman Kurt Cobain, drummer Dave Grohl went on to form Foo Fighters, with Smear joining on guitar. Smear left the band in 1997 before rejoining as a touring guitarist in 2005 and being promoted back to a full-time member in 2010.
Social Network
Pat Smear maintains an active presence on social media, engaging with fans through platforms like Instagram and Twitter. He shares insights into his music, personal life, and thoughts on current trends in the music industry, fostering a deep connection with his audience. His authentic engagement on social networks reflects his commitment to his fans and the music community at large.
Smear kept a fairly low profile during his absence from Foo Fighters. He produced the debut album for the band Harlow and made scattered television appearances. He was employed as a creative consultant in a motion picture about the Germs and Darby Crash, entitled What We Do Is Secret, named after one of the band's best-known songs.
The film was released at the Los Angeles Film Festival on June 23, 2007, had a limited theatrical release in 2008, and is now available on DVD. In the film, Smear is depicted by actor Rick Gonzalez.
In 2005, he began performing reunion shows with the Germs, including actor Shane West, who portrays Darby Crash in the film, filling in as lead vocalist.
Education
While specific details about his formal education are limited, Pat Smear honed his skills through hands-on experience within the music scene. His education is primarily constituted by his extensive time on stage and his collaborations with other musicians, shaping him into the well-rounded artist he is today.
At age 13, he left home to join a commune. Later, he attended Innovative Program School (IPS), an alternative school within University High School in Los Angeles. It was there he met vocalist Darby Crash, alongside whom he would play in the Germs in the late 1970s. Smear and Crash were both expelled from IPS due to concerns they were inciting unruly behavior among the students.
