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Stephen Gately
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Stephen's resolve got him through the highs and lows
Along with Ronan Keating, Stephen Gately was the only member of Boyzone who could actually sing. Mikey Graham's vocals were more pub rocker than boy band singer, while Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch were unashamedly open about their inability to hold a note.
In their more memorable songs, such as 'No Matter What', it was the sharing of lead vocals from Gately and Keating that made Boyzone a superior proposition to the masses of boy bands who strode the musical world in the 1990s. The band lost a sort of charm with a decision to make Keating the main vocal point, with Gately's contribution pushed back into the mix.
Yet, the group were no match for Take That, probably the only manufactured band of the day to enjoy some critical acclaim. Not one Boyzone song comes close to matching the pure pop excellence of Take That's 'Back for Good' or 'Never Forget'.
For the entirety of the Boyzone's career, including last year's money-grabbing reunion, Gately and friends laboured in the shadow of Take That, mainly because they didn't boast a songwriter as talented as Gary Barlow and, back in the day, a member as charismatic and -- by the standards of boy bands -- as dangerously unpredictable as Robbie Williams.
Gately's angelic face -- which seemed Dorian Gray-like in its boyish consistency -- and unstarry, down-to-earth behaviour made him a favourite with fans, but the band's manager Louis Walsh once told me that he had a toughness that the public didn't get to see. As the youngest member of the group, and one thrust into the limelight at 17, Gately needed a steely resolve, not least when a UK tabloid threatened to reveal his sexual orientation.
That resolve would be tested when the band split in 2000. He was the first to launch a solo career, and despite his debut single doing well, it was short-lived. The public had little appetite for an album, New Beginning, which was long on syrupy ballads, short on pop appeal, and boasted an ill-advised cover of the Art Garfunkel song, 'Bright Eyes'. Within a year his record company, Universal, dropped him and Gately faced a scrapheap full of former boy band singers.
But it was at this point that he found his true calling -- as a singer and performer in West End musicals. While the public followed Ronan Keating's increasingly desperate attempts to sustain a solo career and crack America, Gately quietly set about honing his stage skills.
Like Jason Donovan, another washed-up pop singer trying to re-invent himself, he took the lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's long-running Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, earning -- for the first time in his career -- rave reviews.
An even juicier role followed when he played one of the scariest characters in children's literature, the Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which enjoyed a successful six-month run in London's theatreland.
The West End seemed to be a more comfortable home for his theatrical talents than Boyzone and later he would take to the pantomime circuit.
When Boyzone reformed last year -- putting an acrimonious split behind them -- Gately appeared to be genuinely happy to hook up with old friends.
Once again, he and Keating shared lead vocals on a comeback song, a cover of Tom Baxter's 'Better', but like many of their covers in the band's original run it sounded perfunctory and by-numbers.
Yet, despite his enthusiasm for giving Boyzone another shot, there was something half-hearted about the reformation. Take That, without Robbie Williams, had stolen a march on them once more, releasing a pair of albums and embarking on a major tour.
In contrast, Boyzone toured more modestly, with several venues in the UK half empty and although there was talk of a new album, nothing was released.
Once more, Gately was at a crossroads and, again without fanfare, he found another avenue when he turned to writing a children's fantasy novel.
The book -- to be called The Tree of Seasons -- was apparently almost completed by the time of his death.
As is the way with such things, the books is bound to receive far more attention that it would have had he not died so young.
Ultimately, Stephen Gately will not remembered as a great singer or songwriter, but rather as someone who knew his limitations but made the most of his talent.
But more than that, he will be recalled as a genuinely nice man in an industry of egos and puffed-up self-importance.
- John Meagher
From: Independent
13 october 2009
We are truly sorry to confirm that Stephen tragically died on Saturday whilst on holiday, with his partner Andrew, in Mallorca. We are unable to give any other details at this time.
Ronan, Keith, Mikey & Shane have said...
"We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo'".
Ronan, Keith, Mikey & Shane arrived in Port Andratx, Mallorca, yesterday to pay their respects.
The Boyz would like to express their gratitude for the many moving messages and tributes that have been paid to their most dear friend and brother.
They ask that their privacy be respected at this very difficult time.
Everyone involved with boyzone sends their deepest sympathies to Stephen's family and his many friends all over the world.
From: Boyzone official site
13 october 2009
Gately had X Factor job
STEPHEN Gately was due to appear on the X Factor to help judge Louis Walsh mentor the groups, The Sun can reveal.
He was ready to film in the next few weeks and was said to be "really excited" about appearing on the ITV1 hit.
It was part of his plan for a TV comeback before releasing a new album with Boyzone. Stephen was also in talks to star in a reality show.
His X Factor appearance would have come shortly after bandmate Ronan Keating, 32, helped Louis pick his final three acts.
A source said: "Stephen was really excited about coming down to the live show. He had been asking Ronan about the groups. Stephen loved the show and wanted to come on as well." In one of his last interviews, Stephen also revealed he felt under pressure to get back into shape for the comeback after seeing Ronan show off a six-pack while posing for pictures.
In the interview last Monday, he said: "I wish I was in good shape. I have been in the gym today because I'm feeling the pressure of him, and I thought, 'I've got to get back in shape'."
From: The Sun
13 october 2009
From Ronan's official site:
Update
Ronan, Keith, Mikey & Shane arrived in Port Andratx, Mallorca yesterday to pay their respects. The Boyz would like to express their gratitude for the many moving messages and tributes that have been paid to their most dear friend and brother. They ask that their privacy be respected at this very difficult time.
12 october 2009
'I found Stephen dead and I woke his husband'
THE man who found the body of BOYZONE's STEPHEN GATELY has spoken of his horror at the tragedy.
Bulgarian Georgi Petrov Dochev says he woke up to find the pop star dead after a wild night partying with him and husband Andy Cowles.
He told today how he has been suffering insomnia since making the gruesome find on Saturday at the luxury holiday apartment Stephen, 33, and Andy, 32, own in Majorca.
Speaking in broken English from his flat above a nursery school near the island capital Palma, Georgi, 25, said: "I almost have not slept since this happened.
"I found Stephen dead and I woke his husband.
"Stephen was white and very cold when I found him.
"I am still nervous and really upset."
He broke his silence as a local newspaper made the sensational claim Andy was in bed with Georgi when Dubliner Stephen died.
Majorcan daily Ultima Hora said he went into the master bedroom with the Bulgarian while Stephen remained on the living room sofa.
The paper, citing sources close to the investigation, claimed: "What happened at the house has not been established, but the investigators have learned that after a while Andy retired to the bedroom with the Bulgarian, while Stephen stayed in the lounge sat on the sofa.
"In the morning, the singer's husband and his 'friend' got up late and at around 1pm they left the bedroom.
"It was the Eastern European who discovered Stephen was still sat there."
Georgi, a regular at gay nightclub the Black Cat in Palma where the trio met, refused to discuss the reports today.
He confirmed he had already being quizzed by police.
But he said he had no wish to heighten the grief of Andy - pictured left - by going into detail about the hours leading up to the singer's death.
He said: "This is not something that I want to talk about.
"All I will say is that there's a lot of rubbish being printed.
"Andy and I have been interviewed by the police. But I don't want to say anything else without checking first with him."
Stephen's Boyzone bandmates - including RONAN KEATING, pictured below - remained on the island as they waited for an autopsy to shed further light on their friend's death.
They have said they want to fly his body back to Dublin with them after the post-mortem.
Unofficial reports have said Stephen choked on his own vomit after drinking heavily.
But police have continued to reject all requests for more information on the case.
They also declined to confirm the details contained in the Ultima Hora newspaper report.
All they have confirmed so far is that there were no signs of violence or drug-taking at the apartment and no evidence of a suicide note.
The autopsy has been delayed because of today is a Bank Holiday in Spain.
Dublin-based lawyer Gerald Kean, speaking on behalf of Stephen's relatives, insisted his death was a "tragic accident".
Denying reports the singer had been on an eight-hour drinking binge before the tragedy, he insisted: "Stephen was a very sensible man. He enjoyed himself, he loved life.
"I was with him many a night and, if anything, late into nights he would look as though he had just arrived."
Stephen was discovered dead at his apartment over the bay of Cala Llamp near Port Andratx in south west Majorca shortly after 1pm on Saturday.
Andy, who married Stephen in a ceremony in Las Vegas in 2006, made a desperate attempt to revive him with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation before calling emergency services.
Investigators said Stephen was discovered in a crouching position in his pyjamas.
One said: "He was squatting down on the sofa almost in a praying position."
The nightclub the couple had been to on the night of the tragedy is a sleazy rundown late-night bar with grimy walls.
One regular said: "It's the last place you would expect to find a millionaire pop star."
Stephen's Boyzone bandmates all flew to Majorca on a private jet on Sunday evening.
They spent 90 minutes in the flat with Andy before being driven to a nearby four-star hotel for dinner and an early night.
Devastated Andy left his apartment at lunchtime to join Stephen's Boyzone bandmates at their hotel. He was still with them this evening.
From: The Sun
(Click on the link to see a Ronan photo.)
12 October 2009
Wake up! Wake up!
STEPHEN Gately's frantic partner tried desperately to revive the lifeless singer at their Majorca holiday home.
Hysterical Andy Cowles screamed: "Wake up! Wake up!" before giving the stricken Boyzone star the kiss of life.
But he was unable to save tragic Stephen - whom he found in a "praying" position, squatting on the floor with his face resting on a sofa pillow.
Police who sped to the scene concluded the 33-year-old Irishman had choked on his vomit in the night.
Officers on the sunshine island are now piecing together the gay pop idol's movements in his final hours.
And they are keen to speak to a 25-year-old Bulgarian named as Georgi Dochev - said to have met Andy and Stephen at a bar and partied at their home near Port d'Anratx before the singer's sudden death.
The trio are thought to have returned to the £1million flat at about 4.30am on Saturday. An hour later Andy went to bed - but Stephen, who had been drinking EIGHT HOURS, said he would stay up a while longer.
Andy, 32, awoke and discovered the body some time after midday.
Friends told how he battled for 30 minutes to revive Stephen - his civil partner since 2006.
One pal said: "Andy said he'd screamed, 'Wake up! Wake up!' at him. He also tried mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. When everything failed he even slapped him across the face.
"But doctors later confirmed Stephen's lungs had filled with fluid. There was nothing Andy could have done. He had drowned and asphyxiated."
When Andy found no sign of life he rushed to a neighbour for help.
Cops were alerted and arrived at 1pm. A police source said: "Stephen was discovered in a strange position - squatting down by the sofa in almost a praying position.
"His partner was beside himself with grief and was being comforted in their bedroom by a neighbour who he'd called on to help."
Police sources said the star's death appeared to be natural. One said: "At the moment all we know is that Stephen Gately is dead and he was found dead on a sofa at an apartment near Port d'Anratx on Saturday.
"The rest is a mystery. There were no signs of violence or evidence of suicide or any obvious evidence pointing to another probable cause of death, like drugs use. But we're unlikely to be able to shed any further light on what's happened until after a post-mortem."
Stephen and Andy first "wed" in a Las Vegas commitment ceremony in 2003 and more formally in a civil partnership ceremony in London three years later. They are thought to have bought their three-bedroom apartment less than a year ago.
Grey wooden shutters were closed yesterday over the windows of the ground-floor flat, positioned in a tree-lined street overlooking a rocky cove. Heartbroken well-wishers had started to leave flowers outside.
Stephen's shocked Boyzone band-mates Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch last night flew to Majorca. Their silver people-carrier was driven into a car park beneath the flat at about 8.30pm local time.
The stars, in dark clothes and sunglasses, entered the apartment block through a side entrance without a word. They stayed about an hour.
Boyzone's TV star manager Louis Walsh cancelled his appearance as a judge on last night's X Factor to be with the band and Stephen's stunned family.
The star's body is understood to have been transferred from Son Dureta Hospital, in the island's capital, to Palma Cemetery's mortuary.
Stephen, who just a week ago attended a London awards bash before singing at a cabaret night in Soho, shocked the showbiz world in 1999 when he was the first boyband star to bravely come out as gay.
He took the decision to "out" himself in The Sun in June of that year.
Yesterday the star's family invited Irish solicitor and family friend Gerald Kean to speak on their behalf.
He said: "There's no foul play involved and it's not suicide. It's just a tragic accident is what we've been told - and we're happy that that is correct information.
"There is nothing untoward. It's not drugs, we don't believe, it's not suicide, it's not murder, it's not a fight. That's what we've been told."
Mr Kean said the family were shattered by their loss. He added: "They are devastated and they asked me to take calls for the moment. They're just trying to come to terms with it.
He said a post mortem was expected to take place tomorrow.
Stephen's relatives, who have not travelled to Majorca, hope to have his remains returned to Dublin by the end of the week for the funeral.
A police source said: "We will wait until the autopsy, but we don't believe there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death."
Stephen met wealthy Andy, an internet marketing man, at Elton John's 60th birthday party. Elton and partner David Furnish were mutual friends.
Last night Andy was too upset to speak at the holiday home. A blonde woman in her 20s who answered the door said: "He's not ready to talk. I think it's too early for him to talk."
Neighbour Maria Azzellinni said she had seen the couple at her restaurant just two days before he died.
She said: "We cannot believe it. It's a tragedy. Stephen and Andy were here two nights ago, just after they came out from Britain.
"Neither of them smoked or even drank coffee and they showed absolutely no sign of taking drugs.
"Stephen was a total gentleman - always polite, never swore and never refused a request for an autograph.
"He said he loved the sun and found peace here in Majorca. We'll all miss him." One pal of Stephen and Andy said: "They were brilliant together - the life and soul of any party they went to."
Neighbour Graham McDowell said: "I'm absolutely horrified.
"I met Stephen on a couple of occasions. He was the most charming person you could wish to meet."
Stephen had admitted suffering from depression - which hit its worst after Boyzone split in 2000.
The group had topped the UK charts six times during their hugely successful career and Stephen said he found the end hard to take.
But the boys reformed early last year and Stephen was feeling positive about the reunion following a successful tour this summer.
On Wednesday he had been in a meeting with the band's record label in London to discuss a new album.
The band were due back in the studio within the next two weeks.
Meanwhile, Stephen was planning to use his time in Majorca to finish a children's fantasy book he had been working on for a couple of years.
A source said: "Stephen left the meeting on Wednesday absolutely buzzing about the future. The team at the label were excited about the songs they had already heard.
"They told Ronan and Stephen - who were the two best singers in the group - they were looking forward to the finished article.
"Stephen left the meeting thrilled, then he flew to Majorca." However, Stephen, who also enjoyed West End success in musicals including Joseph, had spoken recently about his ongoing battle with depression.
He said: "The break-up affected me the worst of anyone in the band.
"It was a deep dark hole for me and some days I thought I'd never get out of it. I had been Stephen in Boyzone - and then I was a no one.
"But being back with Boyzone has helped my confidence. Being together in the studio, all friends again, is a high point for me. I never want this to end."
From: The Sun
12 October 2009
'I'M GAY AND IN LOVE'...HOW HE STUNNED THE POP WORLD
By John Chapman
THE FOURTH of five children, Stephen Patrick David Gately was born in Dublin on March 17 1976.
His father was a painter and decorator and the family struggled financially.
Gately became a pin-up for teenage girls across Britain when he joined Boyzone in 1993 after answering an advert in Dublin to audition for Ireland’s first boyband.
Alongside bandmates Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham, Shane Lynch and Ronan Keating, his star rose under the guidance of pop mogul Louis Walsh, now an X Factor judge.
The band stormed to six number ones with Gately singing lead vocals with Keating on many of them.
According to his colleagues, Gately loved the limelight and became devoted to his swelling fanbase early in his career.
But, despite his keen female following, he would also prove a hit on the gay scene, especially after confirming his homosexuality.
When the band decided in 2000 to move on to solo projects, the dark-haired Irishman was first with his debut solo single.
He went on to appear in various stage productions including starring in Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and also unveiled an evil streak as The Childcatcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
But in 1999 - amid rumours that a national newspaper was about to “out” him - Gately announced he was gay.
He wed Andrew Cowles, first in a commitment ceremony in Las Vegas in 2003 and more formally in a civil partnership ceremony in London in 2006.
Gately announced it was “great to get back” with the Boyzone lads last year and told fans he was enjoying the experience despite the band’s failure to fill stadiums.
In recent years, Gately had been writing a children’s fantasy novel called The Tree of Seasons.
Last week he attended the Pride of Britain Awards and the band were intending on bringing out a new album in 2010
Quiet and introspective, he suffered bouts of depression but was hugely popular in the celebrity scene.
From: Express
12 October 2009
What they said...
What some celebrities said when they heard the news of Stephen's death.
Although I know and like all of the Boyzone guys, it's definitely Stephen I have been closest to.
Last year, when the guys performed on the X-Factor final with Eoghan Quigg, we all went out together afterwards and to see him and Andy together at the table would lift anyone's spirits.
Even as we were all sitting there together they were constantly sharing secret little smiles and brushing hands and they were just madly in love.
Stephen always had time for everyone and he did his best to make everyone feel welcome and part of the conversation.
He just had amazing talent and charisma, both on and off the stage.
The funny thing is that I promoted a gig with them in Mitchelstown in Cork years ago, when I was just 13 or 14, and they were the same guys then that they are now. Stephen never let the fame go to his head and never forgot his roots.
I was on the way home from a night out when I got the text and it's only now it's starting to sink in.
A journalist friend of mine was at the X Factor and when I heard it from him, I knew it had to be true. It's just a terrible waste of life.
There are very people out there, especially in the cut-throat pop industry, who don't let it go to their heads.
People can get very ratty sometimes when they're doing interviews and are on their 10th one that day but Stephen was never like that. I've never seen him in bad form.
-- BAND MANAGER JAMES HYLAND
We are all devastated by the news and we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, bandmates and, of course, his husband Andrew.
Stephen was always a great friend of the clubs. He was a kind and sweet gentleman and always had a smile on his face.
It's a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.
-- LILLIE'S BORDELLO HOSTESS Hayley RocK
"This is really, really tragic news. I want to send out my condolences."
- SIMON COWELL
"Stephen was one of the good guys in the business. I worked with him for around 20 years and he was always helpful and likeable."
- PETER AIKEN
"I saw Stephen just recently, because he uses the same gym as me when he's back in Dublin.
To be honest, I thought he seemed to be in the best form that I'd seen him."
He was very happy, madly in love with his partner and delighted that Boyzone were back together again."
- BRIAN KENNEDY
"I knew him well and it's very sad.
The last time I saw him at an event he was just so happy. He was on top of the world with his marriage, his career. Life was good and you could see it in him.
It's a real tragedy because he was such a lovely and genuine guy.
I met him towards the end of Boyzone the first time around.
Would you believe we met on planes back and forth from Dublin to London?
We were both on the same flight a few times and we used to sit together and have a chat and catch up. He was also on my show on TV3 a few years ago and I just couldn't say a bad word about him.
We had a couple of mutual friends and we used to bump into each other at different things.
I didn't find out until Sunday morning as I had gone to bed early on Saturday as I was down in the sticks in Wicklow.
I had 10 texts on my phone when I woke up, all with the same terrible news.
I feel so awful for his lovely husband, Andrew. My heart goes out to them all.
- Brendan Courtney
We all remember that infamous night they were on The Late Late Show for the first time.
They were the epitome of 'can't sing, can't dance, can't perform but could go very far'. We little realised then just how far they would go and just how successful they would be.
It's always extremely tragic when someone at the height of their fame is suddenly struck down like that. It's such a terrible loss.
I haven't crossed paths with Stephen per se in the last few years, but I've certainly come across the boys as a group and I did a long interview with one of his bandmates, Ronan Keating, on a television show for RTE last year.
They all have a great grasp of show business and they know their place in it. They're good blokes doing what they do and they never lost touch with reality. I found out very early on Sunday morning, I heard it on a radio news bulletin and I was very sorry to hear it.
-- Gay Byrne
He was one of the nicest guys I've ever worked with.
He was always happy and always willing to work hard to stay fit and healthy.
He had a healthy life and didn't cause any harm to anyone, I just can't believe it.
I was with the lads when they found out and they were just devastated. They loved him like a brother, to them he was a brother.
They're all in bits, Keith was just crying his eyes out. He really fell apart. Mikey and Shane were there as well and they were in bits. They're all in shock.
God help them and his family and his husband.
-- Paul Byrne, Stephen's personal trainer
"Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and his friends everywhere."
-- Elton John
I was actually at an event with Keith and his wife Lisa Duffy when the news broke. My partner Dennis' family were involved with the Kathleen Flannelly Rose Ball in aid of The Marie Keating Foundation and Yvonne Keating's brother, James Connolly, was also there and he told us.
They were all in bits and shocked naturally, everyone was. Everyone was in great form up until then, Keith and Lisa had been planning to go to an after-party in Wrights in Swords. It was just really shocking and unexpected.
He was just so young and had so much going for him, he always had time for everybody.
-- Valerie Roe, former hostess with Lillies Bordello.
I'm really really shocked. It just hasn't sunk in at all and I don't know what to say about it. I got the text late on Saturday night and I didn't know whether to believe it or not at first.
I'm just absolutely devastated for him and the guys.
I don't know what I can say, our thoughts are with his family and his husband and he'll be greatly missed. It's a terrible tragedy.
-- Brian Ormond
From: Herald
12 October 2009
Top of the pops in zone of artifice
OBITUARY: Stephen Gately
Singer. Born Dublin, March 17, 1976. Died Majorca, Spain, October 10, aged 33.
STEPHEN Gately rose to celebrity as a member of the Irish boy band Boyzone. Alongside Ronan Keating, he was one of two lead singers in the five-strong group, which had six British No.1 singles and four chart-topping albums in the 1990s, and sold an estimated 20million records, mostly to a fan base of young girls.
The phenomenon of manufactured boy bands is hardly new in pop music and can be dated back at least to the mid-60s and the Monkees, not to mention such family groups as the Osmonds and the Jackson Five. But boy-band mania reached a peak in British music in the 90s when Boyzone and Take That fought for domination of the charts with similarly manufactured girl groups, such as the Spice Girls and All Saints.
At their peak, in the short space of 2 1/2 years between 1996 and 1999, Gately and Boyzone scored British No.1 singles with Words, A Different Beat, All That I Need, No Matter What, When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going and You Needed Me. The success was repeated internationally, but the group never caught on in North America, which had its own boy bands such as New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys.
After Boyzone broke up in 2000, Gately embarked on a solo career and made the British charts with his debut single, New Beginning, before he abandoned recording to concentrate on an acting career.
He performed in stage musicals such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Godspell.
Boyzone re-formed in 2008, when Gately resumed touring and recording with the rest of the group's original members.
He made headlines in 1999 when he announced that he was in a gay relationship, a brave admission for a member of a band whose success was built on its non-threatening sex appeal to young girls. Impresario Louis Walsh, Boyzone's manager, hinted strongly that if he had known of Gately's sexuality, he would not have selected him from the 300 who auditioned for the group.
Stephen Patrick David Gately was born in Dublin on St Patrick's Day in 1976. He was 17 when he answered a 1993 advertisement for an open audition placed in the Irish press by Walsh. British boy band Take That, whose members included Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow, was enjoying success, and Walsh's objective was to create an Irish equivalent.
Gately had some undoubted youthful talent as an actor, singer and dancer. But he and his bandmates were selected at least as much for their teenage good looks as their innate musical ability.
One of those who auditioned unsuccessfully was the actor Colin Farrell. After a few early line-up changes, Walsh swiftly settled on a five-piece of Gately, Keating, Mikey Graham, Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch. His ability as a manager to pull strings got them on Irish television before they had a recording contract, and by 1994 they had been signed to PolyGram.
Artistic independence was not on the agenda, and from the outset Boyzone's stage act and material were largely fashioned for the band. After early success in the Irish charts, Walsh made his intentions plain when he had it record a cover version of the Osmonds' Love Me for a Reason. It gave Boyzone its chart breakthrough in Britain, where the record made No.2.
It was followed by a No.1 album, Said and Done (1995), and the group's first No.1 single came in 1996 with a cover of the Bee Gees' old hit Words. That year the group's second album, A Different Beat, also made No.1.
As group members began to play more of a role in songwriting, Keating emerged over Gately as Boyzone's frontman. But their blockbuster singles were almost invariably covers, and there were further hits with Tracy Chapman's Baby Can I Hold You and No Matter What from the Lloyd Webber stage musical Whistle Down the Wind, both of which appeared on the group's third successive No.1 album, Where We Belong (1998).
After a run of 16 top-five singles, a greatest hits collection, By Request, topped the album charts in 1999, but the group members, now in their early 20s, were no longer willing to be manipulated, and Boyzone performed its farewell show in early 2000.
By then Gately had already outed himself, announcing in 1999 that he was in a relationship with Eloy de Jong, a member of the Dutch boy band Caught in the Act. He later formed a relationship with Andrew Cowles, who had been introduced to him by Elton John and David Furnish. Gately and Cowles formally entered into a civil partnership in 2006.
After the break-up of Boyzone, Gately released the solo album New Beginning (2000), which produced three hit singles - the title track, I Believe and Stay - and included a cover of Bright Eyes, recorded for the soundtrack of the TV version of Watership Down. Yet although the album made the top 10, within a year he had been dropped by his record company.
He did not return to the recording studio for another six years, concentrating instead on stage musicals and pantomime. He took the lead role in a new stage production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (2002-03) and appeared in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the London Palladium (2004-05) and in a touring production of the rock musical Godspell (2007).
In 2008, after a year of somewhat tortuous negotiations with Walsh, Boyzone re-formed for a 29-date British tour and recorded two new singles, Love You Anyway and Better.
A new album was reported to be in preparation for release next year.
Away from his musical and acting careers, Gately announced this year that he was writing a children's fantasy novel titled The Tree of Seasons. He was also a patron of the charity Missing People (formerly the National Missing Persons Helpline).
Gately was found dead while on holiday in Majorca. He is survived by Cowles.
From: The Australian
13 October 2009
Stars pay tribute to Stephen Gately
Stephen Gately's Boyzone bandmates have led tributes to the late singer.
The body of the 33-year-old singer was discovered at his holiday home in Majorca on Saturday (10.10.09) and, after flying into the Spanish island to comfort his partner Andy Cowles, the 'Love Me For A Reason' hitmakers - Ronan Keating, Shane Lynch, Keith Duffy and Mikey Graham - issued a statement about their grief.
It read: "We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother.
"We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were looking forward to many more.
"Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our loves and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
"We love you and will miss you forever Steo."
Sir Elton John - who became a friend of Stephen after helping him beat depression after Boyzone split in 2000 - admitted he and partner David Furnish were "stunned" by the news.
He added: "Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and his friends everywhere."
Irish band Westlife described the late star as a "friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer" and sent their condolences to his family, friends and bandmates.
The group said in a statement: "We are, like everyone else, in shock. We met Stephen Gately back in 1998 when we first started out and since then had the pleasure of meeting him many times.
"Himself and the Boyzone guys paved the way for us as a band.
"Our thoughts are with Andy and the rest of his family, his friends, his legions of fans and of course his bandmates Keith, Mikey, Shane and Ronan who will be devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person."
Brian McFadden joined his former Westlife bandmates in paying tribute, saying he was "heartbroken" by the news.
He added: "Life's so unfair. We loved you."
Presenter Stephen Fry posted his thoughts on social networking website Twitter.
He wrote: "Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. He was loveable and sweet-natured and will be hugely missed."
Other stars offering their condolences include Spice Girls singer Emma Bunton, 80s pop icon Boy George, and former Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern.
From: China Daily
12 October 2009
Ronan Keating, other Boyzone members, in Majorca after Stephen Gately’s death
We do not think anyone can blame Ronan Keating if he does not appear at the Audi Centre opening in West London tonight. After the death of his colleague and former fellow bandmate, Stephen Gately, 33, in Majorca on Saturday, Keating has rushed to the Spanish town along with surviving Boyzone members Keith Duffy, Shane Lynch and Mikey Graham.
While Lucire does not have a music beat per se, the fact Keating was part of our headline earlier today meant that we have a responsibility to address the item.
Keating, Duffy, Lynch and Graham issued a joint statement: ‘We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen.
‘We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more.
‘Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
‘Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen’s family. We love you and will miss you forever “Steo”.’
On Twitter, actor Stephen Fry posted, ‘Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. He was loveable and sweet natured and will be hugely missed.’
From: Lucire
12 October 2009
Boyzone's Stephen Gately didn't die from drugs, says grieving family
Boyzone star Stephen Gately is believed to have died after falling ill in his sleep following a night out.
Spanish police were last night following a line of inquiry that the 33-year-old died of natural causes, and believe he may have choked after getting sick.
However, a post-mortem examination on the singer will not take place until tomorrow because it is a bank holiday in Spain today.
The popular Dubliner, originally from Sherriff Street in the north-inner city, was in Majorca with his husband Andrew Cowles when the tragedy happened.
Mr Cowles told friends that he put Stephen down on a sofa in their apartment in Port Andratx at around 6am on Saturday.
They had been out drinking on Friday night with another friend, who police are keen to talk to, and were also seen in a local nightclub.
But Mr Cowles found Stephen dead on the sofa at around 1.45pm on Saturday and immediately dialled 999.
Police quickly established that the death was not suspicious and also say that there was no evidence of drug taking.
Stephen and his partner owned the luxury apartment, worth over €1m, in the south west of Majorca.
The Boyzone star is understood to have been spending time there working on his children's novel 'The Tree of Seasons', which he hoped to release in time for Christmas.
Last Tuesday, he posted on his Twitter website: "Still busy -- lots going on. Focussing (sic) on finishing my book next so may be quiet here."
Solicitor Gerald Kean -- a long-term personal friend of the singer -- is acting as the Gately family adviser. They were too upset to talk to the media last night.
They have yet to decide if they will travel to Majorca but the four other members of Boyzone flew out last night, including Ronan Keating, who was supposed to be running a marathon in Chicago for the Marie Keating Foundation.
Band manager Louis Walsh also pulled out of hit show 'The X Factor' last night.
It is expected that Stephen's body will not be returned to Ireland until the end of this week at the earliest.
Band members Keith Duffy, Ronan Keating, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch released a statement yesterday in which they said they were "devastated by the loss of our friend and brother".
"We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and we were looking forward to sharing so many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit."
Stephen had only travelled back to Majorca in the last few days. He was at an awards ceremony in London on Monday and also attended former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's book launch in Dublin last week.
The death is expected to be dealt with by an investigating judge in Spain.
He will be tasked with reviewing the results of the post mortem and a report from investigators who arrived on the scene.
A friend of Stephen and Andrew, Stephen Purdew, who owns the Champneys chain of health spas in the UK, said: "I got a text from Andrew this morning to say he's absolutely devastated.
"He'd put Stephen on the settee at six o'clock, thought he was going to sleep and found him dead when he woke up. It appears he died as people do when they've drunk too much."
Stephen Gately is survived by his older brothers Mark and Alan, his younger brother Tony and his sister Michelle, as well as his mother Margaret and father Martin.
Mr Kean also ruled out suicide as a cause of the star's death.
"There's no foul play involved and it's not suicide. It's just a tragic accident is what we've been told and we're happy that that is correct information," Mr Kean said.
"There is nothing untoward, it's not drugs, we don't believe, it's not suicide, it's not murder, it's not a fight. That's what we've been told."
Mr Kean said the family was shattered by the news, which they heard late on Saturday. "They're devastated and they asked me to take calls for the moment," he said.
Mr Kean attributed the death to natural causes. The family hope to have the remains returned to Ireland by the end of the week, for the funeral in Dublin. Mr Kean said the family had not yet decided to travel to Majorca.
Boyzone stars Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Shane Lynch and Mikey Graham were last night dressed in dark clothes and wore sunglasses as they arrived at the apartment where Gately died.
They were driven into an underground car park underneath the flat around 8.30pm local time in a silver-coloured Mercedes people carrier. They entered the apartment block through a side entrance without saying anything.
From: Belfast Telegraph
12 October 2009
Boy Band Singer Found Dead
Boyzone singer Stephen Gately died Saturday while on vacation in Mallorca, Spain, the group confirmed on their official website Sunday.
"We are truly sorry to confirm that Stephen tragically died [Saturday] whilst on holiday, with his partner Andrew," a posting on the site said. "We are unable to give any other details at this time."
Bandmates Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said in a statement: "We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He it up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We will love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo.'"
The 33-year-old (second from the left in the photo) shook up the pop world a decade ago when he announced he was gay. The Irish pop group had a huge teenage female fan base at the time and had sold millions of albums before splitting in 2000. The band reunited in 2008 for a successful tour.
Gately and his partner, Andrew Cowles, wed in a civil union in 2006.
The cause of death is not yet known.
From: Eonline
11 october 2009
Stephen Gately: Gentle person who had a wicked sense of humour
Showbiz Correspondent Maureen Coleman recalls her memories of the late Irish pop star Stephen Gately
Along with Ronan Keating, Stephen Gately was one of two main singers in the pop band Boyzone.
But despite his high profile position within the group, Gately came across as a fairly quiet, unassuming kind of guy, happier to stay out of the spotlight.
I interviewed Stephen a couple of times; once when he was with Ronan at a concert in Omagh, and again when Boyzone had reformed and were coming back to Belfast.
On several other occasions I met him socially and was always struck by what a gentle person he was.
The first time I interviewed Boyzone, the band had just played a special gig in Omagh leisure centre for 1,000 excited young fans, just months after the August 15 bomb had exploded in the town, claiming 29 lives.
On that occasion, Keating and Gately were put forward as the spokesmen for the band, but while Keating did most of the talking, Gately said little, except to express how touched he was by the reaction of the crowd to the band’s kindly gesture. He may have been quite shy, but he was also very funny and his wicked sense of humour kept his bandmates entertained.
He was also a risk-taker — choosing to reveal that he was gay at a time when it wouldn’t have seemed a wise move for a boy band with a large female following.
But Gately was a very honest person and couldn’t live a lie and after speaking out about his sexuality, it was like a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
He was also the first of the disbanded five-piece to embark on a solo project and when he was dropped from his record label, he didn’t give up.
Instead, he re-invented himself as a West End star, taking the lead role in Joseph And His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
He was delighted when the band reformed and was in great form the night Boyzone began their comeback tour in Belfast.
With a new album planned for 2010 and a children’s fantasy novel to work on, Gately had plenty to keep him busy.
It’s a tragedy his creativity was cut off at such a young age, when he had so much more to contribute.
From: Belfast telegraph
12 October 2009
Boyzone lead tributes to Gately
(UKPA)
Boyzone led tributes to their "friend and brother" Stephen Gately, saying he was a "beautiful person in both body and spirit".
Stars of the music world, including Sir Elton John and Andrew Lloyd Webber, praised the 33-year-old singer, calling his "untimely death" in Majorca a "tragedy".
Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said: "We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more."
They continued: "Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever 'Steo'."
Sir Elton said: "David (Furnish) and I are stunned by this tragedy. Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and to all his friends everywhere."
And musical impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber added that Gately was "enormously talented". "I very much enjoyed working with him on Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat and the Boyzone hit No Matter What - my biggest selling single," he said. "His death is a great loss to the musical world."
Phillip Schofield, who also played Joseph in the West End production, wrote on Twitter: "My God. What terrible news to wake up to. Poor Stephen. My deepest condolences to his friends family and fans. He was a really lovely guy".
Westlife band members Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan said Gately was "friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer".
Boyzone manager Louis Walsh's spokeswoman said he was "very shocked and exceptionally upset" and he had pulled out of the X Factor live finals.
Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, whose daughter Georgina is married to Nicky Byrne of boyband Westlife, told the BBC's Andrew Marr show: "It's just such a tragedy.Boyzone and Stephen, they've all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it's a huge, huge tragedy. It's so sad."
From: google
11 october 2009
Westlife Comment on Stephen Gately Death
Westlife have paid tribute to Boyzone star Stephen Gately, who died on Saturday at the age of 33. In a statement posted on their website, the band said that they were "in shock" and are "devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person".
It is still not known why he died but it is thought that he died in his sleep after returning to his accommodation in Port d'Andratx after a night out with his partner Andrew Cowles.
The Boyzone Tour website reports: "Stephen tragically died yesterday while on holiday with his partner Andrew in Majorca."
His bandmates Ronan Keating and Keith Duffy are said to be devastated by the news and will flying out to Majorca later along with their manager Louis Walsh.
Louis Walsh, who is not appearing on the X Factor on Sunday night, told the News of the World: "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."
A spokesman for Gately's family have said they don't believe drugs or suicide to be the cause of his death. The family solicitor said: "There's no foul play involved and it's not suicide."
A post mortem will take place in Spain on Tuesday with the family hoping to have his remains back in Ireland by the end of the week.
Police in Spain have said: "There are no signs of suspicious circumstances."
Gately and his partner Andrew married in a civil partnership in 2006.
The Westlife statement in full: "We are, like everyone else, in shock today. We met Stephen Gately back in ‘98 when we first started out and since then have had the pleasure of meeting him many times. He and the Boyzone lads paved the way for us as a band. He was a friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer. Our thoughts are with Andy and the rest of his family, his friends, his legions of fans and of course his bandmates Keith, Mikey, Shane and Ronan who will be devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person. Kian, Mark, Nicky & Shane x."
From: Merry Media News
11 October 2009
Stephen Gately: Why the Boyzone singer's death is the biggest story in the UK
by Clark Collis
I would imagine that many, if not most, readers had never heard of Boyzone singer Stephen Gately before the tragic announcement this weekend that he had died in Majorca at just 33. And I would guess that a lot of you would be surprised to discover how much space British newspapers such as The Sun, The Mirror, and even a conservative-minded broadsheet like The Telegraph are giving the story.
Nor is the extensive coverage of his death merely due to the fact that the Dublin-born singer was an openly gay pop star. It is hard to overemphasize quite how hugely, and enduringly, successful the Irish Boyzone and their British boy band rivals Take That have been in the UK and Ireland over the past two decades. I lived in England for the two bands’ first periods of success in the ’90s, and although in truth I was not a fan of either act, I couldn’t help but acquire through cultural osmosis a working knowledge of their hits and various personality traits. Pretty much everyone in the country, for example, could have told you Take That’s Robbie Williams was the band’s resident joker, but that it was the quintet’s chief songwriter Gary Barlow who was destined for solo success. (And thus the entire country had to eat its collective metaphorical hat when the former’s solo career ultimately easily eclipsed that of his former colleague.)
Take That were the first to crack the UK top ten with “It Only Takes A Minute,” their 1991 cover of the old Tavares song. Over the next five years they racked up an astonishing number of hits and no fewer than eight chart-topping singles. Meanwhile, Boyzone broke through in the UK with their 1994 version of the Osmonds’ “Love Me For A Reason,” and would themselves score a half dozen number ones over the next five years, including “Words,” “All That I Need,” “You Needed Me,” and “No Matter What.”
Take That split in 1996 and Boyzone followed suit in 2000, the year after Gately went public with his sexuality. In 2005, Take That reformed without Williams and continued their hit-making ways as if they had never gone away. In November 2007, Boyzone leader Ronan Keating announced that they too were getting back together, and last year they embarked on a wildly successful tour of the UK and Ireland. Their first reunion release, “Love You Anyway,” was, remarkably, their 17th single in a row to reach the British top five.
Given the fame of Boyzone, and the fact that Gately died at such young age, you can be sure this is story that will run for a while in the British press. Anyone still bewildered by the fuss, or anyone who wants to remind themselves what the group sounded like, should check out the clip of Boyzone performing “No Matter What” below.
From: Music Mix
12 october 2009
Stephen Gately: The Boyzone star's secret life that drove him to lies, pills and depression
By Paul Scott
During the height of their fame in the late 90s, the five members of pop band Boyzone sat around discussing their various plans for a rare weekend off.
Their respective agendas involved some resolutely testosterone-charged classic rock star behaviour - car racing, several celebrity parties to attend and a spot of mandatory nightclub excess.
Throughout the discussion, Stephen Gately remained unusually quiet. When, finally, his band mates demanded to know how he would be spending his free time, Gately, always the most introverted of his famous cohorts, announced somewhat sheepishly he was planning to stay at home, reading horoscopes and indulging his latest
'That was so Stephen,' his friend Kevin Fennell told me last night. 'I used to give him a lift after shows and while the other boys went out on the town to celebrate, all he wanted to do was go home to see his mum.'
But, then Gately never quite fitted the stereotypical image of your average boyband member.
In truth, that was a role that never sat easily with him and threatened for a time to destroy him as he sought to hide his homosexuality from the heartthrob group's millions of adoring girls fans.
And when he did finally come out in a blaze of publicity ten years ago, it coincided with him becoming hooked on drugs to deal with a bout depression so severe he became a virtual recluse who confided to friends his suicidal thoughts.
International fame came to him at an exceptionally young age. Gately, the fourth of five children brought up in a tough district of Dublin's city centre, was just 17 when he applied for a band being put together by Irish impresario Louis Walsh in 1993.
up by record label Polydora year later, the group's teen-friendly ballads proved a commercial hit, chalking up six No1 singles and selling in excess of 15million records.
It was everything the fame-hungry lads had dreamt of. But just as they were hitting the big time, showbusiness was rife with rumours about Gately's private life. At the behest of the svengali-like Walsh and the others, the singer went to incredible lengths to keep his homosexuality a secret for fear it would alienate the group's largely female audience.
The bands' PR handlers put out smokescreen stories claiming he was dating a series of female pop stars, including Emma Bunton of the Spice Girls and Mandy Smith, the ex-wife of Rolling Stone Bill Wyman. Gately himself would play along with the illusion, routinely telling interviewers about the famous women he fancied.
But behind the scenes he had begun a relationship with Dutch singer Eloy De Jong who was himself a member of Europop boyband Caught in the Act.
De Jong regularly travelled with his boyfriend on tour alongside the wives and girlfriends of the other members of Boyzone, but was required to book into hotels under false names, travel on different flights from his partner and in different cars.
The charade was finally exposed, however, in June 1999 when a bodyguard working for the group on their European tour approached a tabloid newspaper with the true story of Gately sexuality.
Knowing he was about to be outed, the singer agreed to come clean in an interview in which he announced he was gay and that de Jong was his lover.
The feared backlash from the group's girl fans did not materialise, but Gately later admitted he was subjected to homophobic abuse in his native Ireland and pulled out of plans to buy a home in Canterbury, Kent, because of anti-gay chants by local teenagers.
His admission is also said by friends to have been the trigger for a rift between Gately and his Catholic parents Margaret and Martin.
It was also to coincide with a series of fall-outs with the group and less than a year later Boyzone split amid barely concealed fallouts and jealousies, with Gately blaming Ronan Keating for orchestrating the split in order to launch his own solo career.
Gately, who at 5ft 5ins with an elfin-face had always been the 'cute' one of the band, launched his own solo career too and scored a couple of minor hits. But although his first single got to number three in charts, subsequent releases flopped.
At the same time and unbeknown to his fans, he was suffering from acute depression he had first fought when the band were riding high, but which had kicked in with a vengeance during Boyzone's acrimonious break-up.
Doctors put Gately on antidepressants, but he quickly became addicted to his medication and later admitted: 'I was a zombie. On these anti-depressants you can't even laugh or cry.'
At the time, friends of Gately were privately talking of their fears that he might try to kill himself as he admitted to he had begun to have secret suicidal thoughts.
A member of Boyzone's entourage who met him by chance at the time said: 'I was really shocked when I set eyes on him. He looked vacant and spacey. He said he had given up the drink and was going to the gym five-times a week. But he looked like he was out of his tree.'
It was Elton John whom Gately credited with bringing him back from the brink after the pop star heard of his plight and invited him to stay at his South of France villa.
After regaining his confidence, Gately returned to the lakeside home near Amsterdam which he shared with de Jong and began immersing himself in the Eastern mystical art of Chakra. But the relationship was already unravelling and the couple split in 2002.
Gately set out to reinvent himself as an actor and musical theatre star and was chosen by Andrew Lloyd Webber to take on the West End lead role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat in
2003. This led to his participation in a series of minor reality television shoes, including Channel Five's All Star Talent Show and ITV's Dancing On Ice.
A month later, he mysteriously pulled of the UK tour of the musical Godspell, in which he was starring as Jesus, after just three weeks, blaming contractual problems. Then, last year he appeared in low-budget horror movie Credo.
But if his professional career was stalling, then his personal life was flourishing. Gately had been introduced to internet entrepreneur Andrew Cowles by Elton John's partner David Furnish. Within weeks of their meeting in 2003, they 'married' while on holiday in Las Vegas.
Three years ago, the couple had a civil partnership ceremony in London, during which they exchanged £20,000 rings.
Sadly, Gately's parents, who still live in a Dublin council house, were not there, as his mother admitted she had not known about the wedding until the day of the ceremony.
Friends of the family revealed at the time that Stephen had not visited his parents home for several years, despite the fact his painter and decorator father needed 24-hour care after suffering a fall from a ladder two years earlier.
Nor was his relationship with Cowles without its share of storminess. Just two months after tying the knot, Cowles was photographed allegedly beating Gately after they had a row while dining at The Ivy restaurant. Gately subsequently laughed off the incident saying: 'Boys will be boys. We were both tipsy and tired.'
Gately had pinned his hopes on a Boyzone reunion to help reclaim the success of his youth, but when Keating eventually relented last year, it was not an unbridled success with a tour this summer often playing to half-empty arenas. At the time of Gately's death, the group were still working on a 'comeback' album.
'Stephen had so much to live for,' says his friend Kevin Fennel. 'The boys had 60 songs they had written and were whittling them down for an album.'
As they mourn their 'friend and brother', the question for the remaining members of Boyzone is whether they can carry on without him.
From: Daily Mail
12 October 2009
Louis Walsh to miss the X Factor live show
Louis Walsh has pulled out of The X Factor live result show tonight following the death of his friend and colleague Stephen Gately.
Louis Walsh will not appear on The X Factor live result show following the death of Boyzone member Stephen Gately, 33, who died yesterday while on holiday with his husband Andrew Cowles in Mallorca.
ITV received the following statement earlier today: "Louis Walsh will not be appearing on tonights live The X Factor results show following the tragic sudden death of Stephen Gately. The other judges - Simon, Dannii & Cheryl - will continue with the show in the usual way. Our thoughts are with Stephen's family and friends at this difficult time."
Sarah Lee, the head of TV Publicity at Hackford Jones PR has spoke on behalf of The X Factor on Twitter: “He thanks you all for the messages of support at this sad time.”
All four remaining members of Boyzone – Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Shane Lynch and Mikey Graham will fly out to Mallorca today. However, a spokeswoman for Louis has said that The X Factor group mentor will not be travelling to Spain with the boys.
As founder and manager of Boyzone, Louis worked closely with the group for many years, with the Irish act becoming one of the most successful boy bands of the 1990s. The group split on 2000 but were reunited in 2008 and spoke to STV about their reunion.
Lead singer Ronan Keating was recently on The X Factor helping out Louis whittle his groups category down to the final three acts.
“We’re all absolutely devastated,” Walsh told the News of the World. I’m in complete shock. I was only with him on Monday at an awards ceremony.”
A spokesman for The X Factor has said there will be no musical tributes to the Irish star on tonight’s show but that judge Simon Cowell will say something on behalf of Louis.
The show will also start differently tonight with the judges beginning the show in their seats rather than the usual grand entrance. It is not sure how the format of the show following Louis’ absence but there is already growing speculation that a guest judge will be asked to appear.
Dannii Minogue, fellow judge on The X Factor, paid her respects on Twitter: “My thoughts go out to Andrew Cowles, and the boys Ronan, Keith, Shane and Mikey. Much love to Louis.”
From: STV entertainment
11 october 2009
Tributes pour in for Gately
The remaining members of Boyzone have led the tributes to their “friend and brother, Stephen Gately as they made their way to the Spanish island of Majorca where the singer died yesterday afternoon.
Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said they were "completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen.
“We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
“Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen’s family. We love you and will miss you forever ‘Steo’.”
Former taoiseach, Bertie Ahern said the Gately family lived in his own constituency.
“I know the family, I know Stephen. Ronan Keating is a very good friend of my daughter’s, my family. He (Gately) was with us the other night with his boyfriend Andy, he came to my book launch."
Mr Ahern, whose daughter Georgina is married to Nicky Byrne of boyband Westlife, continued: “It’s just such a tragedy. Boyzone and Stephen, they’ve all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it’s a huge, huge tragedy. It’s so sad.
“He was 33 years of age, 15 years at the top, a fine musician, it’s just a huge tragedy to Irish entertainment, Irish music and further afield as well.”
The Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht Martin Cullen paid tribute to the singer and offered his sympathy to his family, partner and band members.
He described Gately as “a gifted young man with a talent for singing which brought him tremendous success as a member of Boyzone and also as a West End star.
He said there "was a joy about his music making, and his death at such a young age is both a personal and professional loss.”
Louis Walsh said he only heard about Gately’s death in the early hours of this morning and was “very shocked and exceptionally upset”.
Sir Elton John said he and his partner David Furnish were “stunned by this tragedy”.
“Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and to all his friends everywhere,” the singer said.
Musical impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber said he was “enormously talented”. He said he "very much enjoyed working with him on Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat and the Boyzone hit No Matter What — my biggest selling single."
In a statement, Westlife members Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan said “We are, like everyone else, in shock today. We met Stephen Gately back in 1998 when we first started out and since then had the pleasure of meeting him many times”.
The statement continued “He was a friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer. Our thoughts are with Andy and the rest of his family, his friends; his legions of fans and of course his bandmates Keith, Mickey, Shane and Ronan who will be devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person”.
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr. Emer Costello said “Stephen was born and reared in Sheriff Street and I know that he was loved and respected by the North Inner City community. Stephen’s international success lifted this entire community and he was both an excellent role model and an idol for young people from the area”.
From: Irish Times
11 october 2009
Boyzone stars 'completely devastated' by death of Stephen Gately
Stephen Gately, a singer with the Irish boy band Boyzone who made headlines when he came out as gay a decade ago, has died while on holiday in Spain, the group said on its website. He was 33.
Gately "tragically died" on Saturday while visiting the island of Mallorca, the band said in a brief statement. The cause of death was not immediately clear.
Gately and his partner Andrew Cowles, who were wed in a civil union in 2006, were in Mallorca together, the band's statement said.
"At present we don't have too many details," the statement said. Members of the group arrived at Palma de Mallorca international airport on Sunday afternoon.
Spanish police said they were called to a house near Port d'Andratx on the western tip of the island on Saturday afternoon. The cause of death was unknown and there were no signs of violence, a police spokesman said, on condition of anonymity in keeping with police rules. He said there was likely to be an autopsy.
The house, situated on an exclusive tree-lined seafront street, overlooks a rocky bay reputed to have some of the best sunset views on Spain's favourite holiday island.
By midday on Sunday, journalists had begun to gather outside the quiet, seaside building with several vacation apartments.
Boyzone members Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said they were "completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen".
"We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more.
"Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
"Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever, `Steo'."
Boyzone was a UK hitmaker in the 1990s and announced a comeback tour at the end of last year. Gately also had released several solo singles and appeared in stage musicals, including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
He revealed his sexual orientation to a British newspaper in 1999.
Elton John said he and partner David Furnish were "stunned by this tragedy".
"Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and to all his friends everywhere," John said in a statement.
Boyzone was one of the biggest acts to come out of Ireland in the 1990s. Former Irish prime minister Bertie Ahern said Gately's death was "a huge tragedy to Irish entertainment, Irish music and further afield as well".
"Boyzone and Stephen, they've all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it's a huge, huge tragedy. It's so sad," Ahern said.
Boyzone sold millions of records and topped the British charts with six No.1 singles during the 1990s, including All That I Need and a cover of the Bee Gees' Words.
The group was formed in 1993 by impresario Louis Walsh, who placed an ad in the press announcing auditions for Ireland's first boy band. Among the unsuccessful hopefuls was actor Colin Farrell.
From: SMH
(Click on the link to see a photo of Ronan arriving at Majorca)
11 october 2009
Boyzone mourn 'friend and brother' Gately
Following the death of Stephen Gately last night, the remaining members of Boyzone today paid tribute to their “friend and brother, Stephen”, as they made their way to Spain.
Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said: “We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen.
“We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more.
“Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
“Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen’s family. We love you and will miss you forever ’Steo’.”
Westlife band members Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan said Gately helped pave the way for them in the music industry and was “friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer”.
“We are, like everyone else, in shock today,” they said.
“We met Stephen Gately back in 1998 when we first started out and since then had the pleasure of meeting him many times.
“Himself and the Boyzone lads paved the way for us as a band.
“He was a friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer.
“Our thoughts are with Andy and the rest of his family, his friends, his legions of fans and of course his bandmates Keith, Mikey, Shane and Ronan who will be devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person.”
From: IOL
11 october 2009
R.I.P.
Stephen Gately, member of the Irish boy band Boyzone, died while vacationing in Spain this weekend.
Although the cause of Gately's death is publicly unknown, the members of Boyzone have released a statement saying the singer "tragically died."
He was only 33.
So, so sad.
Our thoughts go out to Stephen's family and friends during this difficult time.
From: Perez Hilton
11 october 2009
From Dannii Minogues'official twitter:
My thoughts go out to Andrew Cowles, and the boys Ronan, Keith, Shane and Mikey. Much love to Louis xXx
11 october 2009
From Mark Plunkett's official twitter page:
In complete shock.
We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen.
11 october 2009
From Nicky Byrne's official twitter page:
A very very sad day..my love thoughts and prayers are with stephens family,Andy and of course ronan mikey shane and keith..
11 october 2009
From Ronan's official twitter:
Hi we are all devastated. Heading to mallorca to support Andrew. Thanx for your comments. R
11 october 2009
Boy band singer dies while on holiday
Stephen Gately, a member of the Irish boy band Boyzone, has died suddenly while on vacation in Spain, according to the group's website.
The statement says the 33-year-old singer "tragically died" Saturday on the Spanish island of Mallorca. The cause of death has not been revealed.
"At present we don't have too many details," the website says.
The comment did say that Gately and his partner, Andrew Cowles, who were joined in a civil union in 2006, were in Mallorca together.
Spanish police said they were called a house Saturday afternoon near Port d'Andratx on the western tip of the island and did not see any signs of violence. Officials said they are awaiting the results of an autopsy before divulging any more details.
Boyzone members — Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch — are expected to arrive on the island soon.
They said they were all "completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more.
"Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world."
'Kindest, gentlest soul'
"Boyzone and Stephen, they've all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it's a huge, huge tragedy. It's so sad," said former Irish prime minister Bertie Ahern.
Others in the entertainment world also expressed their shock and condolences, including Elton John and his Canadian partner, David Furnish.
"David and I are stunned by this tragedy. Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul.
"We send our love and condolences to his partner, Andy, and to all his friends everywhere."
Formed in 1993, Boyzone hit it big during that decade, selling millions of records and hitting the British charts with six No. 1 singles that included All That I Need and a cover of the Bee Gees' Words.
Gately also went solo and appeared in stage musicals, including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. In 1999, he openly acknowledged his sexual orientation to a British newspaper.
The band reunited in 2008.
According to BBC News, Gately's last message on Twitter, dated Oct. 6, was: "Still busy — lots going on. Focusing on finishing my book next so may be quiet here."
From: CBC
11 october 2009
Boyzone singer Gately dies in Spain at 33
(AFP)
MADRID — Boyzone singer Stephen Gately, 33, died on Saturday while on holiday in Majorca off the coast of Spain, the Irish band with a string of hits in the 1990s said on its website.
"Stephen tragically died yesterday whilst on holiday with his partner Andrew in Majorca," the site said on Sunday. The Boyzone members, including lead singer Ronan Keating, were heading to Majorca following news of the death.
The circumstances surrounding Gately's death remained unclear but (Britain's) News of the World newspaper reported he died after a night out.
Boyzone manager Louis Walsh told the newspaper: "We're all absolutely devastated." He said: "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... He was a great man."
Speaking to the newspaper late Saturday, band member Shane Lynch said: "Me and the boys are flying out in the morning. "We just need to get over to where he's passed and work out what we need to do."
Gately, who married his partner Andrew Cowles in a civil union in 2006, sent ripples through the pop music world 10 years ago when he announced that he was gay.
He joined Boyzone in 1993 after answering an advert in Dublin to audition for Ireland's first boyband. The band went on to enjoy huge success with six number one singles in Britain, but split up in 2000. They reunited seven years later, but their recent 19-date Better tour failed to fill stadiums, despite offers of free tickets.
Gately also starred in West End musicals in London, including "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat".
Boyzone lead singer Keating was "completely distraught", the News of the World said, and former Irish prime minister Bertie Ahern paid tribute to Gately, whom he knew, on the BBC's Andrew Marr show.
He said: "The Gatelys are in my own constituency. I know the family, I know Stephen. "He (Gately) was with us the other night with his boyfriend Andy, he came to my book launch." Ahern, whose daughter Georgina is married to Nicky Byrne of boyband Westlife, continued: "It's just such a tragedy. "Boyzone and Stephen, they've all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it's a huge, huge tragedy. It's so sad."
Gately last posted a message on his Twitter page on October 6, writing: "Still busy, lots going on. Focusing on finishing my book next so may be quiet here."
British actor and comedian Stephen Fry said on Twitter that he was shocked at the news. "Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. He was loveable and sweet natured and will be hugely missed."
From: Google
11 october 2009
Showbiz World Pays Tribute To Irish Singer
The entertainment world has been paying tribute to Boyzone singer Stephen Gately, who has died aged 33 while on holiday in Majorca. The Irish star reportedly fell asleep after a night out and never woke up. It is not yet known what caused his death.
Boyzone members Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch:
"We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. "We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. "He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. "Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo'."
Boyzone manager Louis Walsh:
"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." Walsh also told the News of the World: "I only heard after The X Factor and we will rally around each other this week. He was a great man."
Singer Sir Elton John:
"David (his partner David Furnish) and I are stunned by this tragedy. Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. "We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and to all his friends everywhere."
Gately's friend, journalist Hannah Fernando, who had lunch with him just over a week ago:
She told Sky News: "I can't believe it. I'm so shocked. It's so upsetting, because he's such a nice man. "Anybody to die at the age of 33 is just horrific no matter who you are but he was just such a nice person. "In showbiz, you do meet a few characters and he's one of the nicest people I've ever met on that showbiz circle. "He was very much clean living. He was in a very, very good place in his life. Boyzone as a group are just so grateful to be back second time around and to be so well received this time round. "He also wanted to do so much in the West End. He was such a fantastic singer in the group alone."
Former Irish prime minister Bertie Ahern:
"This is a huge tragedy. Stephen and Boyzone have been very much a part of our life for 15 years in Ireland. "They've done well around the world, but they are very much a group of lads from north Dublin. "It's a huge loss. I extend my sympathy to the Gately family and all the lads in Boyzone."
Mr Ahern, whose daughter Georgina is married to Nicky Byrne of boyband Westlife, also told Sky News: "It's a huge loss for all the supporters of Boyzone.
"They got back together, they've been doing really well. "I was talking to Ronan (Boyzone singer Ronan Keating) the other night. "They had a big year ahead. So it's a huge personal tragedy to the Gatelys but also to the entertainment and music industry."
Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber:
"He had a terrific personality, what he could have gon on to become was a really great character actor in musical theatre. "He was a really really lovely guy, I just want to remember him as the beautiful person he was "He was one of those people who people wanted to be around."
Radio DJ and historian Paul Gambaccini:
"This was not supposed to happen. This was not in the script. Everyone is surprised as well as being demoralised by this. "Stephen's band name had the term 'boy' in it and boys, which they were when they were popular in the 90s, aren't supposed to go this quickly. "They had 16 top five singles. Six were number ones. They put out four albums and they were all number ones. "They sold more singles in the Nineties than Take That. Boyzone were the best selling singles boyband during the Nineties. "Then they split and Ronan (Keating) had his great solo success. Now they've come back and you would think there was everything to play for. "The problem is where do they go from here without him. Without Stephen, it's Ronan and the others. This really changes the chemistry of the whole thing."
Presenter Stephen Fry:
Writing on the micro-blogging website Twitter, he said: "Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. "He was loveable and sweet-natured and will be hugely missed."
Singer Katherine Jenkins:
She wrote on Twitter: "So so sad 2hear the news about Stephen Gately. "We had a really fun night out with him at the Ivy Club a few weeks ago. Good memories 2 cherish".
From: Sky news
11 october 2009
Stephen Gately's Death 'Not Suspicious
Spanish police investigating the death of Boyzone singer Stephen Gately in Majorca say there were "no signs of suspicious circumstances".
The 33-year-old Irish pop star and actor was on holiday with his long-term partner Andrew Cowles in Majorca when he "tragically died" on Saturday, said the Boyzone Tour website.
A spokesman for the police in Spain said Gately died at 1.45pm in his house in Port Andratx, and added: "At the moment it is not known how he died. There are no signs of suspicious circumstances."
Speaking from Majorca, Sky News reporter Mark Stone said that police found the body on the sofa in the lounge and there were a total of two people present at the apartment.
He said: "Details remain pretty unclear. We managed to take a look at some documents, they tell us that police received the body around half past four."
He added that Gately had been out the night before, saying: "We think we know he was drinking in a bar, perhaps they went to a restaurant, but none of this is confirmed."
The News of the World reported that Gately went to sleep after a night out and failed to wake up.
A post mortem is due to take place on Tuesday.
A spokesman for Gately's family said they were "shattered" and were hoping to hold the funeral in Dublin.
Gerald Kean added: "There's no foul play involved and it's not suicide. It's just a tragic accident is what we've been told and we're happy that that is correct information.
"There is nothing untoward, it's not drugs, we don't believe, it's not suicide, it's not murder, it's not a fight. That's what we've been told."
He told Sky News: "The heart of the family has been torn out of them."
The four remaining members of Boyzone have arrived on the Spanish island.
Meanwhile, the group's manager Louis Walsh missed the live X Factor show, and fellow judge Simon Cowell paid tribute to Gately at the start of the programme.
A statement from Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch read: "We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen.
"We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit.
"He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world.
"Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo'."
A message on the band's official website said: "Stephen tragically died whilst on holiday in Majorca yesterday.
"He was there with his partner Andrew. At present we don't have too many details. The rest of the boyz will be travelling to Majorca."
Gately married his partner Andrew Cowles in a civil union in March 2006. When the gay singer came out 10 years ago it caused a sensation in the pop music world.
Dan Wootton, showbiz editor of the News of the World, told Sky News how he spoke to Walsh after the news of Gately's death broke. He said the X Factor judge told him: "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."
Lynch told the newspaper the rest of the band will now head out to Majorca. He told Wootton: "We just need to get over to where he's passed and work out what we need to do."
Gately also became a star in the West End, appearing as Joseph in and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and on television in ITV's Dancing on Ice.
He last posted a message on his Twitter page on October 6, writing: "Still busy - lots going on. Focussing on finishing my book next so may be quiet here."
From: Sky News
(Click on the link for a photo of Ronan arriving at Majorca)
11 october 2009
Stephen Gately summed up Boyzone: cute, cheerful and clearly having a ball
The best bits of the 33-year-old Boyzone singer's career, who has died while on holiday in Spain
He was the voice of Boyzone's best ballad, No Matter What, one of the first modern pop stars to come out before he was outed, and an enthusiastic live performer who'd grab his crotch as high notes approached, allowing the audience's screams to drown out any vocal shortcomings.
While fans come to terms with the unexpected death of this former Smash Hits magazine's Hero Of The Year, let's enjoy this video of Gately in full flow, knocking out Beyonce's Single Ladies on the recent Boyzone comeback tour.
Like most aspects of Boyzone's comeback – and the Irish band's entire career – the clip is cheap, cheerful and rough around the edges, but Gately's clearly having a whale of a time.
The Single Ladies clip is clearly 100% Gately gold, but even Stephen, a self-confessed lifelong Disney obsessive, would be unlikely to turn down the following opportunity to plunge headfirst into sentimentality.
So try this one for size: Gately performing his 2000 cover of the Watership Down blubfest, Bright Eyes with a new score by Mike Batt, who originally penned the tune about his own dying father.
Perhaps that video's closing moments provide a fitting summary of Gately's career: flying around on wires and belting out a ballad with a couple of topless blokes thrown in for good measure.
From: Guardian
11 october 2009
Tributes paid to Stephen Gately
Stephen Gately of Irish band Boyzone has been found dead on holiday in Majorca, Spain. The sudden death of the 33-year-old has shocked fans and music industry figures. Gately was on holiday with his partner Andrew Cowles and the rest of the band are believed to be travelling to Majorca. The cause of death is not known.
GATELY'S AGENT
A statement from Caroline de Wolfe and Rosemary Reed, of Agents Back Door Management, said: "Stephen was a very talented and much loved client and it was our great pleasure to work with him and our thoughts and condolences are extended to his loved ones at this very distressing time.
"We are shocked and saddened that he is no longer with us and had such a short life as he had much more to give.
"Stephen was both in and out of the spotlight a genuine, funny and very charismatic man who was a joy to spend time with and it was a privilege to know him.
"He retained that rare quality of being humble despite his fame and this endeared him to those he worked with."
FORMER IRISH TAOISEACH BERTIE AHERN
"The Gatelys are in my own constituency. I know the family, I know Stephen. Ronan Keating is a very good friend of my daughter's, my family.
"He [Gately] was with us the other night with his boyfriend Andy, he came to my book launch."
He added: "It's just such a tragedy. Boyzone and Stephen, they've all been part of Irish life and far wider than that, the last 15 years, and so successful, so it's a huge, huge tragedy. It's so sad.
"He was 33 years of age, 15 years at the top, a fine musician, it's just a huge tragedy to Irish entertainment, Irish music and further afield as well."
BOYZONE MANAGER LOUIS WALSH
"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."
BROADCASTER EMMA FORBES
"A sweeter man I've never met. He was just the loveliest guy and I am truly saddened. Such a young age, such a great talent, a divine person. "He had a beautiful voice and a really lovely personality. Whenever I met him it was a total joy to interview him."
MUSIC JOURNALIST PAUL GAMBACCINI
"He's a performer with the word 'boy' in his professional title and boys aren't supposed to die. "This is way too soon and way too unspecific for us to feel that this is at all the right thing to happen. "This is a very sad thing on a personal level and a professional level."
BROADCASTER STEPHEN FRY
Writing on the micro-blogging website Twitter, he said: "Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. He was loveable and sweet-natured and will be hugely missed."
SIR ELTON JOHN
"David and I are stunned by this tragedy. Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and to all his friends everywhere."
BBC RADIO 1'S FEARNE COTTON
Also on Twitter, she wrote: "What sad sudden news about Stephen Gately. Thoughts go out to his family and friends."
SINGER KATHERINE JENKINS
"So so sad 2hear the news about Stephen Gately. We had a really fun night out with him at the Ivy Club a few weeks ago. Good memories 2 cherish" (Twitter)
From: BBC News
11 october 2009
From Brian McFaddens official twitter:
heartbroken! R.I.P the beautiful stephen gately. life is so unfair. we loved you and you'll be in our hearts forever
11 october 2009
From Ronan's official site:
Stephen Gately
We are truly sorry to confirm that Stephen tragically died yesterday whilst on holiday, with his partner Andrew, in Majorca. We are unable to give any other details at this time. Ronan, Keith, Mikey & Shane are devastated by the news and send their deepest sympathies to Stephen's family and his many friends all over the world.
11 october 2009
Stephen
We are truly sorry to confirm that Stephen tragically died yesterday whilst on holiday, with his partner Andrew, in Majorca. Ronan, Keith, Mikey & Shane are devasted by the news and send their deepest sympathies to Stephen's family and his many friends all over the world.
11 october 2009
From Boyzone's official twitter page:
Stephen tragically died whilst on holiday in Majorca yesterday. There are no details as yet.
11 october 2009
Boyzone- singer Stephen Gately (33) has died.
Former Boyzone- singer Stephen Gately (33) died suddenly in Mallorca. “He went out, had a few drinks, went to sleep and never woke up.” says a friend of Gately. The singer was on holiday in Mallorca.
Gately was together with Ronan Keating lead singer in the Irish boyband Boyzone, which was very popular in the nineties. The band had 6 number 1 hits in the UK. His Boyzone colleagues with whom he would bring out a new album in 2010 will fly out to Mallorca today. Ronan Keating, who was in Chicago, is heartbroken by the news.
Gay
In 1999 Gately told he was gay to the newspaper the Sun. He was forced to do this, since somebody threaded to tell his secret.
At that time the singer had a relationship with Eloy de Jong from the boyband Caught in the act. They knew each other for four years. In January 2002 Stephen and Eloy split up. After that he met Andrew Cowles (a businessman with an internet company). On the 19th of August 2003 they announced they were married in Las Vegas. The couple lived together in Soho. (London)
Musicals.
When Boyzone split up in 2000 Gately was the first to start a solo carreer. He brought out an album called the new beginning. Later he made furore as a musical star. He played in Joseph and the Wizard of Oz.
In 2008 Boyzone came back together for a reunion tour.
Translated by Cindy
From: De Morgen.
11 october 2009
More Dutch articles here click on the links to read the articles in Dutch:
Eurosong Be
Telegraaf
Brabants Dagblad
Stentor
Boyzone's Stephen Gately dies at 33
Singer passes away suddenly whilst on holiday in Majorca
Boyzone singer Stephen Gately has died at the age of 33.
Gately who was on holiday in Majorca, Spain, died Saturday (October 10) with details of the Irish singer's death unclear.
"We're all absolutely devastated. I'm in complete shock." Boyzone manager Louis Walsh said in a statement. "I was with him on Monday at an awards ceremony. We don't know much about what's happened yet... He was a great man."
Ronan Keating and the other members of Boyzone are now planning to fly to Majorca today (October 11) to mourn with the singer's family and friends.
From: NME
11 october 2009
Boyzone star dies on holiday
The official website of Irish boy-band Boyzone has confirmed the death of one of its members, 33-year-old Stephen Gately.
A statement posted on the website says the singer died yesterday while on holiday with his partner in Majorca.
Reports say Gately had been out for a few drinks before returning to his accommodation in Palma. He fell asleep and could not be woken.
The remaining members of the band, including pop heavyweight Ronan Keating, will travel to Palma tomorrow. The band's manager, Louis Walsh, is reported to be shocked and devastated by Gately's death.
From: NZ HERALD ONLINE
11 october 2009
Stephen Gately 1976 - 2009
Boyzone star Stephen Gately has died suddenly while on holiday in Majorca aged 33.
Gately was born in Ireland in March 1976 and joined Boyzone in 1993 after answering an advert in Dublin to audition for Ireland's first boyband.
He and Ronan Keating shared lead vocals and band had huge success with six singles reaching reaching number one.
The band decided to split in 2000.
Gately was the first with his debut solo single titled New Beginning and later a debut solo album of the same name.
He went on to appear in various stage productions including starring in Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Gately hit the head lines in June 1999 when he admitted he was gay in British tabloid newspaper The Sun - disappointing thousands of his girl fans.
His manager Louis Walsh was unaware of Gately's sexuality when he selected him for the band and has said that, had he known, he would have thought twice before picking him, citing that "it wasn't cool then to have a gay guy in a band
Gately wed Andrew Cowles, first in a commitment ceremony in Las Vegas in 2003 and more formally in a civil partnership ceremony in London in 2006.
Boyzone reformed in 2008 and Gately was enjoying the second coming when he tragically died in Majorca.
Gately had made his film debut in 2009 with an appearnace in the horror movie Credo.
He recently attended the Pride of Britain Awards and Boyzone were due to release a new album in 2010.
From: TVNZ
11 october 2009
Boyzone Star Stephen Gately Dies In Majorca
Boyzone star Stephen Gately has died suddenly while on holiday in Majorca
The 33-year-old went to sleep after a night out but failed to wake up, according to the News of the World.
The four remaining band members are flying out to the island today. Singer Ronan Keating is said to be "completely devastated".
A message on the band's official website confirmed Gately's death: "Stephen tragically died whilst on holiday in Majorca yesterday.
"He was there with his partner Andrew. "At present we don't have too many details. The rest of the boyz will be travelling to Majorca later this morning."
Gately married his partner Andrew Cowles in a civil union in March 2006. When the gay singer came out 10 years ago it caused a sensation in the pop music world.
Dan Wootton, showbiz editor of the News of the World, told Sky News how he spoke to Boyzone's manager Louis Walsh after the news of Gately's death broke. He said the X Factor judge told him: "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."
Band member Shane Lynch told the newspaper the rest of the band will now head out to Majorca. He told Wootton: "We just need to get over to where he's passed and work out what we need to do."
Gately also became a star in the West End, appearing as Joseph in and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and on television in ITV's Dancing on Ice.
He last posted a message on his Twitter page on October 6, writing: "Still busy - lots going on. Focussing on finishing my book next so may be quiet here."
From: Sky News
11 october 2009
Boyzone star Stephen Gately found dead
Boyzone singer Stephen Gately has been found dead at the age of 33, it was reported today.
Gately was believed to have been holidaying in Majorca when he died yesterday, according to a newspaper.
A friend of Gately's told the newspaper: "It looks like he went out for a few drinks, then got back, fell asleep and never woke up."
Boyzone manager Louis Walsh told the News of the World: "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 - Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Shane Lynch and Mikey Graham - will be flying to Palma, Majorca tomorrow.
Boyzone star Shane Lynch told the News of the World: "Me and the boys are flying out in the morning. We just need to get over to where he's passed and work out what we need to do."
Ronan Keating, who is in Chicago, has been left devastated by the death of his close friend. A pal revealed to the newspaper: "Ronan is completely distraught. No-one saw this coming.
"He loved Stephen like a brother, they were so close, it's absolutely floored him.
"It's a massive shock to everyone and no one can take it in yet.
"He was a man in the prime of his life, and this is a huge tragedy."
Gay singer Gately's coming out ten years ago caused a sensation in the pop music world. He leaves a husband Andrew Cowles, who he married in a civil union in March, 2006.
Gately also became a star of theatre, TV and radio, appearing in the West End as Joseph in and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and in the ITV show Dancing on Ice.
Boyzone had 17 top five singles and four number one albums before splitting in 2000. They made a comeback tour in 2007, however their recent 19-date Better tour was deemed a flop as the band played to half-filled arenas.
A statement on Boyzone's official website confirmed the Irish singer's death.
It said: "Stephen tragically died yesterday whilst on holiday with his partner Andrew in Majorca.
"The rest of the boyz will be flying out today."
From: Times online
(click on the link to see a recent photo of Ronan with Stephen)
11 october 2009
Boyzone star Stephen Gately dies
By Dan Wootton
BOYZONE star Stephen Gately died suddenly yesterday at the age of just 33, the News of the World can reveal.
Last night the cause of his death was unclear.
A close friend said it appeared Stephen died after going out in Majorca, 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 pal said.
Early this morning Boyzone manager Louis Walsh told us: "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 - will be flying to Palma, Majorca tomorrow. Boyzone star Shane Lynch said: "Me and the boys are flying out in the morning. "We just need to get over to where he's passed and work out what we need to do."
Ronan Keating, who is in Chicago, has been left devastated. A pal revealed: "Ronan is completely distraught. No-one saw this coming. He loved Stephen like a brother, they were so close, it's absolutely floored him. "It's a massive shock to everyone and no one can take it in yet. He was a man in the prime of his life, and this is a huge tragedy."
He 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 pop music world. 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.
Six of their singles reached number one, including "Stay" in 2001.
Stephen Gately - 1976-2009
Gately was born in Ireland in March 1976 and joined Boyzone in 1993 after answering an advert in Dublin to audition for Ireland's first boyband.
He and Ronan Keating shared lead vocals and band had huge success with six singles reaching reaching number one, including "Stay" in 2001.
The band decided in 2000 to move on to solo projects. Gately was the first with his debut solo single titled New Beginning and later a debut solo album of the same name.
He went on to appear in various stage productions including starring in Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Gately hit the head lines in June 1999 when he admitted he was gay in our sister paper the Sun disappointing hundreds of his girl fans. His manager Louis Walsh was unaware of Gately's sexuality when he selected him for the band and has said that, had he known, he would have thought twice before picking him, citing that "it wasn't cool then to have a gay guy in a band
Gately wed Andrew Cowles, first in a commitment ceremony in Las Vegas in 2003 and more formally in a civil partnership ceremony in London in 2006.
Boyzone got back together in 2008 and Gately was enjoying the second coming when he tragically died last night in Majorca. This year in had made his film debut in the horror movie Credo.
Last week he attended the Pride of Britain Awards and the band were intending on bringing out a new album in 2010.
From: news of the world
11 october 2009