Boyzone: Stephen Gately Has Died

UPDATE: It seems Stephen Gately died in his sleep following a night of drinking. See here for details.

Stephen Gately, a singer with the boy band Boyzone out of Ireland, has died while he was on a vacation in Spain, according to the group’s official website. Gately was 33 years of age.

The singer apparently died on Saturday while he was visiting Majorca, a Spanish island. The cause of death has not yet been revealed.

“At present we don’t have too many details. The rest of the boys will be traveling to Majorca later this morning,” the band said in a statement.

Gately was in Majorca with his domestic partner, Andrew Cowles. They had been married in a civil union back in 2006.

From the band’s website:

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.

Boyzone generated a slew of hits in the U.K. in the 1990s and had just announced a comeback tour at the end of 2008. Gately also had quite a few solo hits and had appeared in stage musicals, such as “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”