People ranging from artists to political dignitaries are speaking out following the death of The Script guitarist, Mark Sheehan. The band broke the news on Friday (April 14) that Sheehan had passed away at the age of 46 following a brief illness.
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“Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness,” Sheehan’s bandmates Danny O’Donoghue and Glen Power said in a joint statement. “The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.”
Fans and Sheehan’s musical peers have taken to social media to share their condolences. President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins released an official statement, praising the “originality” and “excellence” of The Script’s success across the world.
“Through their music, Mark and The Script have played an outstanding part in continuing and promoting this proud tradition of Irish musical success across the world,” Higgins states. “While Mark will be missed by so many, it is his family who will of course experience the greatest loss. May I extend my deepest sympathies to Mark’s wife Rina, to his children Cameron, Avery, Lil, and Bria, to his bandmates in The Script, and to all his family and friends.”
Fellow Irishman Hozier commented on The Script’s Instagram post announcing Sheehan’s death, writing, “So saddened to hear about this. Thinking of you all and of Mark’s family right now and sending love. Sincere condolences to you all.”
American singers Gavin DeGraw, Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, and the band American Authors also reached out.
“I can’t BELIEVE this he will be so missed one of the nicest best dudes I’ve ever had the pleasure of touring with and hanging with,” Tedder shares. “This is horrible.”
“I’m so sorry for your loss,” DeGraw adds. “Sending much love and peace to you guys. He was an amazing guy. A true gentleman. And will be missed terribly.”
“Send you all our love,” said American Authors. English singer-songwriter Calum Scott also took the time to send his condolences. “So sorry to hear this news,” he said. “Sending love and thoughts to all those connected to Mark.”
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