Mark Sheehan, guitarist for the Irish musical band the Script, passed away in hospital after a brief illness at the age of 46.
In 2001, Sheehan co-founded the band with lead singer Danny O’Donoghue and percussionist Glen Power.
Mark Sheehan, a beloved husband, father, brother, bandmate, and friend, passed away today in the hospital after a brief illness, according to a statement posted on the group’s social media platforms.
“The family and group request privacy during this difficult time,”
The couple had three children.
O’Donoghue told Sunday World that Sheehan had taken a pause to spend time with his family after missing the U.S. leg of the band’s tour last year. He added that the group supported Sheehan’s decision and described them as “a band of siblings” who “stick together through thick and thin.”
Later, Sheehan rejoined his colleagues for a series of performances in Ireland. This summer, the ensemble is scheduled to support US singer Pink at concerts across the United Kingdom and Europe.
O’Donoghue and Sheehan had been closest friends since the age of 12 and had both grown up in Dublin.
2008 saw the publication of The Script’s self-titled debut album, which debuted at number one in both the United Kingdom and Ireland. It featured successes such as We Cry, Breakeven, and The Man Who Can’t Be Moved, the latter of which reached No. 2 on the UK singles chart.
From 2010 to 2019, the band accumulated more UK No. 1 albums than any other Irish performer.
Former Westlife singer Brian McFadden characterised the news as “devastating” on Twitter. He exclaimed, “Mark was one of the good ones!”
Former Boyzone singer Mikey Graham, whose bandmate Stephen Gately died unexpectedly in 2009 from an undiagnosed heart condition, said, “Today we lost another youthful music legend.
“I can and do comprehend the pain Glen and Danny, as well as their families, are experiencing right now. I offer you my affection and support during this time. You gave the world your music; it will transport you back to your home, Mark.”
Laura Whitmore, a former Love Island host, posted on Instagram, “Thinking of you all at this moment. Mark was among the kindest and most talented people you could ever meet.
OneRepublic vocalist Ryan Tedder described Sheehan as “one of the nicest, most genuine individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of touring with and getting to know” He said, “Mark, you will be missed.”
Catherine Martin, the Irish minister for culture, described Sheehan’s death as a “great shock to music lovers everywhere and to the Script’s legions of worldwide admirers.” She added, “My deepest condolences to his family, bandmates, and friends.”
