The world woke up this morning to learn that the Boyzone singer Stephen Gately has passed away.
Stephen was on holiday in Majorca with his partner where he was discovered to have passed away in his sleep. Officials say there are no signs of suspicious circumstances although cause of death is yet unknown.
Stephen was best known for being a member of Boyzone who took the pop world by storm and introduced the Irish charm to the masses. During the 90's, Boyzone had 6 UK numbers ones before they split up to pursue solo careers only to reform again in 2007. During his solo career, Stephen had three top 20 singles.
See Stephen and the rest of Boyzone launching their career on Irish TV
Boyzone's manager and X factor judge Louis Walsh told the News of the World newspaper, "We're all absolutely devastated." Boyzone's statement said: "Ronan, Keith, Mikey and Shane are devastated by the news and send their deepest sympathies to Stephen's family and his many friends all over the world."
Stephen was voted Hero of 1999 at the Smash Hits Poll Winners Party, as well as appearing on ITV1's Dancing on Ice in 2007.
It's a sad day for the music industry and there will be many thousands of fans worldwide who will miss Stephen's cheeky smile.
