Sinéad O’Connor, 56, Passes Away

Singer Sinéad O’Connor has died at the age of 56.

In a statement forwarded by her family to Irish broadcaster RTE, it was announced that O’Connor passed away on Wednesday, 26 July. Her death comes more than a year after her 17-year-old son, Shane Lunny, committed suicide.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” the statement reads. “Her family and friends are devastated, and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”

The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, although it’s surmised that her mental health issues may have contributed to it.

Born in Dublin, Ireland in 1966, O’Connor released her debut album, “The Lion and the Cobra”, in 1987, although she would achieve global success three years later with her second album, “I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got” – its lead single, a cover of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U”, topped multiple worldwide charts.

She also achieved notoriety over the years, particularly for her controversial stance against the Catholic Church. One such infamous moment in 1992 saw her tearing up a picture of Pope John Paul II during her “Saturday Night Live” performance to protest against child abuse at the hands of the clergy.

O’Connor is survived by her three children: Jake (36), Roisin (27) and Yeshua (16).

Image Credit: Source