The Script's Mark Sheehan always put his family first when he was still alive.
The band confirmed Sheehan's death Friday, revealing that he died at the age of 46. The Script said in a statement (via Billboard) that the guitarist, who they called a "much-loved husband, father, brother, bandmate and friend," passed away in a hospital after a brief illness.
There had been rumors suggesting that he died of cancer, but his real cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Mark Sheehan Spent More Time With Family Before Death
Sheehan is survived by his wife, Rina Sheehan, and their three children. As his exact cause of death remains unknown, the interview featuring The Script's lead singer Danny O'Donoghue resurfaced.
In the May 2022 interview with The Sunday World, the frontman revealed that Sheehan missed some of their US leg dates to focus on his family.
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"It's his story to tell, but yeah, I guess if I could paraphrase, his children needed a father and his wife needed a husband," the singer said. "He's been the engine of The Script for such a long time, [I told him] that 'if you want to take a bit of time out for your family you are more than welcome to, and I insist on you going and doing it.'"
O'Donoghue noted that Sheehan took his much-needed time off and came back refreshed. For the frontman, allowing the guitarist to do so was the best thing that happened to the band.
With that, he and Glen Power pushed through the American leg as a duo before welcoming back for the Irish tour.
The Script Members Stood By Each Other
Although O'Donoghue does not have kids, he said he understands the extra pressure both Power and Sheehan felt because they had been juggling The Script and their family lives.
Despite that, the members reportedly made sure they were always there for each other.
The frontman cited an example, recalling the time his lung collapsed. Through the worse time, both his bandmates accompanied him during interviews and stuck with him as a "band of brothers."
The Script was formed in Dublin in 2001. It soon led the group to become one of the biggest bands in Ireland. Among its hit songs include "Breakeven," "We Cry," and the anthem "The Man Who Can't Be Moved."
After Sheehan's death, Irish President Michael D. Higgins praised The Script's excellence and sent condolences to the guitarist's family.
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