Boyzone's Stephen Gately found dead

Published: 3:37PM Sunday October 11, 2009 Source: ONE News/Newstalk ZB

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Boyzone star Stephen Gately has died suddenly while on holiday in Mallorca.

British newspaper The News of the World is reporting that Gately went to sleep after a night out, but failed to wake up.

A close friend told the paper it appeared Gately died after going out in Mallorca, where he was on holiday.

"It looks like he went out for a few drinks, then got back, fell asleep and never woke up," the source said.

Boyzone manager Louis Walsh told the paper "We're all absolutely devastated."

"I'm in complete shock. I was only with him on Monday at an awards ceremony. We don't know much about what's happened yet.

"I only heard after The X Factor and we will rally around each other this week. He was a great man."

All four remaining members of Boyzone - who recently reunited - are said to be flying to Mallorca.

A spokesman for Boyzone has confirmed the death but details are yet to emerge.

The four remaining band members will be flying out to Palma.

Fellow band member, Ronan Keating - who had been in Chicago - has been left devastated.

A friend told the News of the World: "Ronan is completely distraught. No-one saw this coming. He loved Stephen like a brother, they were so close, it's absolutely floored him."

Gately leaves a partner Andrew Cowles, who he married in a civil union in March, 2006.

The gay singer's coming out ten years ago caused a sensation in the world of pop music.

Gately joined Boyzone in 1993 after answering an advert in Dublin to audition for Ireland's first boyband.

The band went on to have huge success with six of their singles reaching number one in the UK.

Please leave your memories of Stephen Gatley and your condolences on the messageboard below.

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  • funlol said on 2009-10-12 @ 19:33 NZDT: Report abusive post

    So tragic for his husband and family. To those saying it is impossible to die of natural causes at 33, that is nonsense. One of my friends dropped dead from a heart condition he didn't know he had, he was only 20 and seemed very fit and healthy. At this stage, nobody knows what happened, just seems like he died in his sleep. auto insurance quotes

  • MarmiteKat said on 2009-10-12 @ 17:31 NZDT: Report abusive post

    Im the biggest Boyzone fan and Steven's death was such a shock to me when I found out this morning. I now feel like crying when I hear him singing... I send my love to all of his family and friends. R.I.P Steven, you will forever be in our hearts...

  • Gods Gr8 said on 2009-10-12 @ 11:01 NZDT: Report abusive post

    Not a great Boyzone fan,however news of any death is saddening. May you rest in peace S.C and may Gods arms of comfort be upon your family, friends and fans who are mourning your sudden death. Gods peace be with them also for whatever is instore from media and paprazzi in regards to your death. God Bless You....... Taupo/Auckland, New Zealand

  • bexxxxxxxxx said on 2009-10-12 @ 00:48 NZDT: Report abusive post

    love 2 eveyone who cares how it happend in a spirital sence his time was up it a part of life an we must go on memories will live on he will never b forgotton

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