Phil Rudd absent from AC/DC Grammy show

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd. Photo / Alan Gibson

Embattled rockstar Phil Rudd was conspicuously absent from the AC/DC performance at today's Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

Ongoing legal troubles have prompted speculation about Rudd's future with the band but AC/DC have maintained a stiffer upper lip about his place in the group.

Mr Rudd, a Tauranga resident, will face trial in April on charges of drug possession and threatening to kill.

Yesterday, fellow drummer Chris Slade confirmed on Facebook he would join AC/DC for both the Grammys and the band's upcoming Rock Or Bust tour.

The AC/DC website, however, still listed 60 year-old Mr Rudd as the band's drummer.

Mr Rudd was to appear for a hearing in Tauranga District Court tomorrow, but that was cancelled and he'll now start the judge-alone trial on April 21.

The drummer has denied charges of threatening to kill and possession of cannabis and methamphetamine.