Irish singer Sinead O’Connor, best known for her hit single Nothing Compares 2 U, has died aged 56.
A statement from the Dublin-born singer’s family reported by RTE and The Irish Times, said: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinead.
‘Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.’
Ireland’s Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he was ‘really sorry’ to hear the news of O’Connor’s death.
‘Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare.
Sinead O’Connor has died at the age of 56 after mental health struggles
Irish music legend Sinead O’Connor has died at the age of 56, it was reported last night
Ireland’s Prime Minister leads the heartfelt tributes for Sinead O’Connor
‘Condolences to her family, her friends and all who loved her music.’
He added, ‘Ar dheis Dé go Raibh a hAnam,’ which translates to ‘At the right hand of God rest her soul.’
The Irish singer shot to stardom across the world in 1990 by her heartrending cover of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U.
UFC star Connor McGregor posted a tribute and photos of him and O’Connor together.
On Twitter, he said: ‘The world has lost an artist with the voice of an Angel.
‘Ireland has lost an iconic voice and one of our absolute finest, by a long shot.
‘And I have lost a friend. Sinead’s music will live on and continue to inspire!
‘Rest In Peace, Sinead you are home with your son I am sure.’
Dublin City Councillor James Geoghegan wrote on Twitter: ‘Awful news. Thoughts with her family. May she rest in peace.’
Her death comes a year after the mother-of-four’s son Shane, 17, took his own life in January 2022 after escaping hospital while on suicide watch.
In her last Tweet, O’Connor posted a photo of Shane and said: ‘Been living as undead night creature since. He was the love of my life, the lamp of my soul.
‘We were one soul in two halves. He was the only person who ever loved me unconditionally.
‘I am lost in the bardo without him.’
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It comes a year after the mother-of-four’s son Shane, 17, took his own life in January 2022 after escaping hospital while on suicide watch
The Irish singer shot to stardom across the world in 1990 by her heartrending cover of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U
This could be the last image of Sinead O’Connor, taken from a video posted on July 9 2023
The musician, who changed her name to Shuhada’ Sadaqat in 2018 when she converted to Islam, was thought to be spending her time between Co Roscommon, Ireland, and London.
Tanaiste Michael Martin said he was ‘devastated’ to hear of O’Connor’s passing.
He added: ‘One of our greatest musical icons, and someone deeply loved by the people of Ireland, and beyond.
‘Our hearts goes out to her children, her family, friends and all who knew and loved her.’
Twitter is full of emotional tributes dedicated to the star.
Irish broadcaster Louise McSharry said she was ‘devastated’ to hear the new of O’Connor.
‘What a loss,’ she added.
Broadcaster Louise McSharry shares her devastation on Twitter
Dublin City Councillor James Geoghegan also pays tribute to the star
O’Connor shot to stardom across the world in 1990 by her heartrending cover of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U
O’Connor is survived by her three children.
RTE presenter Ryan Tubridy who was friends with Sinead for many years, posted his tribute to Instagram stories.
He said: ‘Like everyone, I’m devastated by the awful news about Sinead.
‘We spoke days ago, and she was as kind, powerful, passionate, determined and decent as ever.
‘This photo is from the night I went with my mum to see her in Vicar St. Rest in peace Sinead, you were ahead of your time and deserve whatever peace comes your way.’
A tribute account to the late Irish poet Seamus Heaney said: ‘A great Irish poet and singer left us today.
‘She was beautiful, courageous and wore her heart on her sleeve. She was before her time. Nothing will ever compare to Sinéad O’Connor.
‘Rest easy Sinéad.’
