LONDON — LONDON (AP) — Sinéad O’Connor, the talented Irish singer-songwriter who rose to fame in her mid-20s and was known for both her music and personal struggles, has passed away at the age of 56. Her family confirmed the news in a statement released Wednesday by the BBC and RTE, requesting privacy during this difficult time. The cause of her death has not been disclosed.
O’Connor was open about her mental illness and publicly shared her diagnosis of bipolar disorder. In 2017, she posted a Facebook video from a motel in New Jersey, expressing her struggles and determination to stay alive for the sake of others. She also revealed her anguish following the suicide of her teenage son Shane, stating that there was no point in living without him. Following this tragic event, O’Connor’s mental state deteriorated, leading to her hospitalization. Her final tweet, sent on July 17, addressed mothers who had lost children to suicide and shared a Tibetan compassion mantra.
Known for her distinctive shaved head and powerful mezzo soprano voice, O’Connor began her career singing on the streets of Dublin and quickly gained international recognition. Her debut album, “The Lion and the Cobra,” released in 1987, established her as a star. However, it was her 1990 cover of Prince’s ballad “Nothing Compares 2 U” that propelled her to superstardom. The emotional intensity of her performance, coupled with a provocative music video, made her an icon across the globe. Despite her musical achievements, O’Connor’s political and cultural views, as well as her troubled personal life, often overshadowed her talent.
O’Connor frequently expressed her criticisms of the Roman Catholic Church and caused controversy in 1992 when she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II during a live appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” She faced backlash from audiences and fellow celebrities, such as Joe Pesci, who threatened her in response. Her political activism continued throughout her career, including her support for the Irish Republican Army and her call for a thorough investigation into the Catholic Church’s involvement in concealing child abuse. Later on, she converted to Islam in 2018.
Throughout her life, O’Connor faced numerous personal challenges and had turbulent relationships. She entered multiple marriages and endured a difficult childhood, which she claimed involved abusive behavior from her mother. Despite these hardships, her love for music and her extraordinary talent allowed her to connect with millions of people around the world.
The news of O’Connor’s passing has deeply saddened fans and musicians alike, with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar describing her talent as unmatched and beyond compare. Singers such as Tori Amos have paid tribute to O’Connor, highlighting her passion, intense presence, and courageous battles with personal demons. Sinéad O’Connor leaves behind a lasting legacy in the music industry and will forever be remembered.