Mark Sheehan: Script guitarist and co-founder dies at 46
Tributes are pouring in from across the music industry in the wake of the passing of The Script co-founder and guitarist Mark Sheehan.
The Irish musician passed away after a short illness at the age of 46.
“Husband, father, brother, bandmate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a short illness,” the band said in a statement on Friday (April 14).
“The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.”
Lead singer Danny O’Donoghue and Sheehan were best friends growing up in Dublin before forming the rock band in 2001 with the addition of drummer Glen Power.
They released their eponymous debut album in August 2008, which included the singles “The Man Who Couldn’t Move” and “Breakven”.
After six studio albums, the band released a Greatest Hits compilation album in 2021.
Scroll down for live updates and tributes to Sheehan when they arrive.
OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder reacted in shock
American singer-songwriter Ryan Tedder — best known for fronting boy band OneRepublic — had an amazing reaction to the news of Sheehan’s death.
In response to the band’s announcement, Tedder tweeted: “I can’t believe this, one of the best guys I’ve ever had the pleasure of touring and hanging out with will be missed. This is awful.”
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 20:45
Sheehan lives with his wife and three children
Sheehan married Rina Sheehan, a singer from Texas whom he met while working on music for The Script. The couple shared three children and lived together in America.
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 20:30
Sheehan missed the band’s US tour last year
O’Donoghue said sunday world Last year, Sheehan took a break from The Script tour to spend time with his family.
“It’s his story to tell, but yeah, I think if I can paraphrase, his kids need a father and his wife needs a husband,” said the singer.
It’s been the engine of The Script for a long time, [I told him] that “If you want to spend time with your family, you are more than welcome, and I insist you go and do it.”
He added that the group was supportive and described them as a “band of brothers” who “stick together no matter what”.
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 20:10
A clip of Sheehan singing with O’Donoghue shared by fans
Fans share a clip of Sheehan from The Script’s final show in Belfast following the guitarist’s death.
The video sees him singing with lead vocalist O’Donoghue and interacting with the person he’s filming.
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 20:03
Irish rockers Kodaline remember Sheehan
Kodaline, another Irish rock band that came to prominence in the early 2010s, shared their condolences.
“So sorry to hear of the passing of Mark Sheehan! We have had the great fortune to spend time in his company over the years and he has always been a wonderful man! My deepest condolences to his family and brothers.” @tescript.
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 19:36
applauds the music reporter for The Independent
The IndependentRoisin O’Connor’s head of music shared a tweet about Sheehan’s impact in the wake of his death.
“The script was everywhere in the 2010s, you couldn’t watch a teen drama or turn on the radio without hearing one of their songs,” she wrote. “A lot of it is down to Mark Sheehan – great hooks, beautiful rich guitar riffs. Damn.”
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 19:33
The band remembers Sheehan as “husband, father, brother, bandmate”
The script announced the news of Sheehan’s death on Twitter Friday night.
Along with a short statement, they shared a profile picture of the guitarist.
Tom MurrayApril 14, 2023 19:15
Future teen idol. Typical social media ninja. Alcohol buff. Explorer. Creator. Beer advocate.”