Legendary playwright and artist John Byrne (83) and iconic The Pogues star Shane MacGowan (65) pass away
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It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of a distinguished playwright and artist at the age of 83 and a well-known member of The Pogues, who departed at the age of 65.
Scottish-born artist John Byrne, a towering figure in the arts scene, and Irish punk musician Shane MacGowan passed away last November 30.
Known for his remarkable versatility and creativity, John Byrne left an indelible mark on theatre, television, and visual arts.
His death was announced by the Fine Art Society, who described him as 'one of the most inventive and versatile of all Scotland’s modern artists'.
Born in Paisley, Byrne's journey to artistic acclaim began at the Glasgow School of Art.
His early experiences working in the colour rooms of a carpet factory inspired his debut play, Slab Boys, which premiered in 1978.
The play was a resounding success, eventually making its way to Broadway in New York City, where it was performed by a star-studded cast including Kevin Bacon, Sean Penn, and Val Kilmer.
Byrne's artistic prowess was not confined to the theatre. He made a significant impact on television with his much-loved BBC series Tutti Frutti. The series, which followed an ageing rock’n’roll band on a tour of Scotland, starred Robbie Coltrane and Emma Thompson and won six Baftas.
Beyond his contributions to theatre and television, Byrne was a masterful painter known for his striking self-portraits. His artistic talents also extended to designing theatre sets and album covers, including The Beatles.
Byrne's most recent mural work can be seen adorning the ceiling of the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh and another in Glasgow to mark Connolly’s 75th birthday.
His paintings are proudly displayed in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery.
The news of Byrne's passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the Scottish arts community.
Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf described Byrne as 'an extraordinary playwright, artist and designer'.
He added: 'Scotland has lost a cultural icon, and the world is less [bright] with his passing.'
Nicola Sturgeon, who had Byrne design her first Christmas card during her time as first minister, said on social media that Byrne was a 'supremely talented playwright and artist, one of Scotland’s most important cultural voices of modern times, and the loveliest of men'.
Scottish contemporary artist Alison Watt echoed these sentiments, posting: 'So very sad to hear of the death of the brilliant John Byrne. Supremely gifted as an artist and playwright, generous, funny and the most stylish man I’ve ever met.'
Byrne leaves behind a rich legacy, including four children, one of whom is the actor Honor Byrne-Swinton, the daughter of Oscar-winning actor Tilda Swinton.
The same day, November 30, the world of music lost Shane MacGowan, the iconic frontman of The Pogues.
Known for his raw talent, rebellious spirit, and poignant lyrics, MacGowan left an indelible mark on the punk and folk music scenes.
His death, following an eight-year battle with a brain condition, has left fans and fellow musicians alike reflecting on his significant contributions to the music industry.
Born in Pembury, Kent, but raised in Tipperary, Ireland, MacGowan's life was a testament to resilience and passion.
Despite his struggles with substance abuse and health issues, he remained a prolific songwriter and performer, captivating audiences with his unique blend of punk energy and traditional Irish melodies.
MacGowan's wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, confirmed that the cause of his death was pneumonia. He passed away peacefully at home in Dublin, surrounded by his family.
Victoria wrote on social media: ‘There’s no way to describe the loss that I am feeling and the longing for just one more of his smiles that lit up my world.’
The news was also announced via a heartfelt statement on The Pogues' social media accounts.
‘Shane died peacefully at 3 a.m. this morning (30 November 2023) with his wife Victoria and family by his side. Prayers and the last rites were read, which gave comfort to his family,’ it read.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians, reflecting the profound impact MacGowan had on the music world.
‘He was a beautiful poet and songwriter. I’m a big fan. R.I.P.,’ Jimmy Barnes wrote.
‘Shane is going to be remembered as one of the great figures not only in Irish music, but I think one of the great figures in Irish literature, he was an extraordinary poet,’ Fiachna Ó Braonáin of Hothouse Flowers stated in an interview.
His death has also reignited a campaign to make The Pogues' best-known song, 'Fairytale of New York,' the UK Christmas number one. You can watch it here:
Shane MacGowan was a figure larger than life, known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and rebellious spirit. His music, a unique blend of punk and traditional Irish folk, resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a beloved figure in the music industry.
MacGowan was first hospitalised in December 2022, suffering from viral encephalitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the brain. Despite his health struggles, he remained optimistic and even sent a message to his fans, wishing them well and expressing his gratitude for their support.
In the months leading up to his death, MacGowan was visited by several famous faces, including his Pogues bandmates Spider Stacy and Terry Woods, as well as US star Bruce Springsteen.
As we remember John Byrne and Shane MacGowan, we celebrate their extraordinary influence on arts and music. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family at this difficult time.
May they rest in peace.
Scottish-born artist John Byrne, a towering figure in the arts scene, and Irish punk musician Shane MacGowan passed away last November 30.
Known for his remarkable versatility and creativity, John Byrne left an indelible mark on theatre, television, and visual arts.
His death was announced by the Fine Art Society, who described him as 'one of the most inventive and versatile of all Scotland’s modern artists'.
Renowned artist John Byrne passed away at the age of 83. Credit: @LostGlasgow/X (Twitter)
Born in Paisley, Byrne's journey to artistic acclaim began at the Glasgow School of Art.
His early experiences working in the colour rooms of a carpet factory inspired his debut play, Slab Boys, which premiered in 1978.
The play was a resounding success, eventually making its way to Broadway in New York City, where it was performed by a star-studded cast including Kevin Bacon, Sean Penn, and Val Kilmer.
Byrne's artistic prowess was not confined to the theatre. He made a significant impact on television with his much-loved BBC series Tutti Frutti. The series, which followed an ageing rock’n’roll band on a tour of Scotland, starred Robbie Coltrane and Emma Thompson and won six Baftas.
Beyond his contributions to theatre and television, Byrne was a masterful painter known for his striking self-portraits. His artistic talents also extended to designing theatre sets and album covers, including The Beatles.
Byrne’s latest mural on King’s Theatre in Edinburgh. Credit: Theatre Scotland/Facebook
Byrne's most recent mural work can be seen adorning the ceiling of the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh and another in Glasgow to mark Connolly’s 75th birthday.
His paintings are proudly displayed in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery.
The news of Byrne's passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the Scottish arts community.
Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf described Byrne as 'an extraordinary playwright, artist and designer'.
He added: 'Scotland has lost a cultural icon, and the world is less [bright] with his passing.'
Nicola Sturgeon, who had Byrne design her first Christmas card during her time as first minister, said on social media that Byrne was a 'supremely talented playwright and artist, one of Scotland’s most important cultural voices of modern times, and the loveliest of men'.
Scottish contemporary artist Alison Watt echoed these sentiments, posting: 'So very sad to hear of the death of the brilliant John Byrne. Supremely gifted as an artist and playwright, generous, funny and the most stylish man I’ve ever met.'
Byrne leaves behind a rich legacy, including four children, one of whom is the actor Honor Byrne-Swinton, the daughter of Oscar-winning actor Tilda Swinton.
The same day, November 30, the world of music lost Shane MacGowan, the iconic frontman of The Pogues.
Known for his raw talent, rebellious spirit, and poignant lyrics, MacGowan left an indelible mark on the punk and folk music scenes.
His death, following an eight-year battle with a brain condition, has left fans and fellow musicians alike reflecting on his significant contributions to the music industry.
Shane MacGowan, The Pogues star, passed away at the age of 65. Credit: @victoriamaryclarke/Instagram
Born in Pembury, Kent, but raised in Tipperary, Ireland, MacGowan's life was a testament to resilience and passion.
Despite his struggles with substance abuse and health issues, he remained a prolific songwriter and performer, captivating audiences with his unique blend of punk energy and traditional Irish melodies.
MacGowan's wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, confirmed that the cause of his death was pneumonia. He passed away peacefully at home in Dublin, surrounded by his family.
Victoria wrote on social media: ‘There’s no way to describe the loss that I am feeling and the longing for just one more of his smiles that lit up my world.’
The news was also announced via a heartfelt statement on The Pogues' social media accounts.
‘Shane died peacefully at 3 a.m. this morning (30 November 2023) with his wife Victoria and family by his side. Prayers and the last rites were read, which gave comfort to his family,’ it read.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians, reflecting the profound impact MacGowan had on the music world.
‘He was a beautiful poet and songwriter. I’m a big fan. R.I.P.,’ Jimmy Barnes wrote.
‘Shane is going to be remembered as one of the great figures not only in Irish music, but I think one of the great figures in Irish literature, he was an extraordinary poet,’ Fiachna Ó Braonáin of Hothouse Flowers stated in an interview.
His death has also reignited a campaign to make The Pogues' best-known song, 'Fairytale of New York,' the UK Christmas number one. You can watch it here:
Shane MacGowan was a figure larger than life, known for his distinctive voice, poetic lyrics, and rebellious spirit. His music, a unique blend of punk and traditional Irish folk, resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a beloved figure in the music industry.
MacGowan was first hospitalised in December 2022, suffering from viral encephalitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the brain. Despite his health struggles, he remained optimistic and even sent a message to his fans, wishing them well and expressing his gratitude for their support.
In the months leading up to his death, MacGowan was visited by several famous faces, including his Pogues bandmates Spider Stacy and Terry Woods, as well as US star Bruce Springsteen.
As we remember John Byrne and Shane MacGowan, we celebrate their extraordinary influence on arts and music. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family at this difficult time.
May they rest in peace.
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