The Script's Mark Sheehan - who sadly passed away due to a sudden illness - was previously supported by his bandmates after withdrawing from their greatest hits tour last year.
Sheehan died in hospital on Friday (14 April) at the age of 46, the Irish band announced.
The guitarist helped form the band alongside frontman, Danny O’Donoghue, and drummer Glen Power back in 2001.
In a statement on their social media pages, the group said: “Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness.
Advert
“The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.”
In tribute posted on Instagram, Irish presenter Laura Whitmore wrote: “Thinking of you all at this time.
“Mark was one of the nicest and most talented men you could meet.”
Irish pop duo Jedward also said: “Everyone in the Irish music industry and worldwide mourn your loss RIP Mark such a talented musician from The Script one of the most iconic Irish groups of our generation.”
Fans have also been paying tribute, with one person tweeting: "My heart is breaking for you guys and all of your family and loved ones. Rest in peace. Words can’t even explain. Sending all my love your way," as a second wrote: "My heart just sank. Rest in peace."
Advert
Another added: "My deepest condolences to Mark's friends and family during this difficult time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers."
Well, back in May 2022, lead singer O’Donoghue told the Sunday World that Sheehan had missed the American leg of their greatest hits tour to be with his family.
“It’s his story to tell, but yeah, I guess if I could paraphrase, his children needed a father and his wife needed a husband,” O’Donoghue told the Irish paper.
Advert
“He’s been the engine of The Script for such a long time, [I told him] that ‘if you want to take a bit of time out for your family you are more than welcome to, and I insist on you going and doing it’.
“He took a little bit of time off. You get refreshed, then you come back with a new zest for life. And I believe it was the best thing that could have happened for all of us.”
Sheehan spoke openly about the love he has for his wife Rina.
"Rina is from Texas - we met on the road," he once said. "I was producing and working in different studios and she was a studio session singer and backing singer.
Advert
"And we just kind of clicked in the usual way you do."
The couple have three children together, Cameron, Avery, and Lil.
Featured Image Credit: PA Images / London Entertainment / Alamy Stock Photo