For over two decades, Westlife has been one of the most successful boy bands in pop music history. Formed in 1998, the Irish group captured hearts with soaring ballads, impeccable harmonies, and enduring charm. While their chart-topping hits and global tours have made them household names, fans have long been curious about the financial fortunes of each member. From record sales and solo careers to business ventures and TV gigs, here’s a comprehensive look at the net worth of Westlife’s core members—Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and former member Brian McFadden.
Kian Egan: £20 million (approximately $26 million USD)
Often described as the laid-back surfer of the group, Kian Egan has quietly built an impressive fortune estimated at £20 million, or about $26 million USD. While his musical contributions to Westlife form the foundation of his wealth, Kian has diversified his career in notable ways.
Following Westlife’s initial split in 2012, Kian found success as a TV personality. In 2013, he won the reality series I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, which boosted his public profile and led to a series of television appearances and presenting gigs, particularly in the UK and Ireland. He’s also worked as a judge on The Voice of Ireland and released a solo album titled Home, which reached the top 10 in the UK and Ireland.
In addition, Kian has invested in property and continues to earn from Westlife’s reunion tours and album sales. His consistent presence in both entertainment and business makes him one of the wealthiest members of the band.
Mark Feehily: $16 million (approximately £12 million)
With an estimated net worth of $16 million (around £12 million), Mark Feehily stands as one of Westlife’s most vocally distinguished members—and one of its wealthiest. Renowned for his powerful tenor and emotive delivery, Mark has always been a fan favorite.
During Westlife’s hiatus, Mark launched a solo career under the name Markus Feehily, releasing the critically acclaimed album Fire in 2015. He followed it up with Christmas in 2017, showcasing a jazzier, crooner side of his artistry. While his solo career didn’t match the commercial heights of Westlife, it helped cement his status as a respected vocalist.
Mark also earns from songwriting royalties and Westlife’s continued success since their 2018 comeback. He has been outspoken about LGBTQ+ rights and is praised for being one of the first openly gay pop stars in Ireland, further enhancing his cultural legacy.
Shane Filan: $3 million (approximately £2.4 million)
Once the frontman most associated with Westlife’s soaring romantic ballads, Shane Filan currently has a net worth estimated at $3 million (about £2.4 million). While that figure is more modest compared to his bandmates, Shane’s financial story includes both dramatic highs and very public lows.
In 2012, Shane filed for bankruptcy in Ireland after the collapse of his property development company, Shafin Developments Ltd, which he co-owned with his brother. The economic downturn and property market crash devastated the business, leaving Shane with debts of over £18 million.
Despite this setback, Shane reinvented himself through music. He launched a successful solo career, releasing three studio albums (You and Me, Right Here, and Love Always) and embarked on solo tours before reuniting with Westlife in 2018. His persistence and passion for performing have allowed him to recover and continue building back his financial standing.
Nicky Byrne: $1–5 million (approximately £0.8–4 million)
Nicky Byrne‘s net worth is estimated to range between $1 to $5 million (roughly £0.8 to £4 million), depending on the source. While he may not have the highest financial profile among his bandmates, Nicky has perhaps the most varied post-Westlife career.
After the band’s initial breakup, Nicky moved into broadcasting, becoming a prominent television and radio presenter in Ireland. He hosted RTÉ 2fm’s daily radio show and served as a co-presenter on various reality TV formats, including Dancing with the Stars Ireland. In 2016, Nicky even represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Sunlight.”
His income streams are diverse, spanning media, entertainment, and music. Nicky has managed to stay in the public eye consistently, which has allowed him to maintain a steady, if not extravagant, fortune.
Brian McFadden: £14 million (approximately $18 million USD)
Brian McFadden, who left Westlife in 2004 to pursue a solo career, holds an estimated net worth of £14 million (around $18 million USD). Despite his early departure, Brian remains a major figure in Westlife’s history, having been part of their rise to fame and early hits.
After leaving the group, Brian released solo music, including his debut album Irish Son, and the chart-topping single “Real to Me.” He later found renewed popularity in Australia, where he served as a judge on Australia’s Got Talent and hosted various television shows. His collaborations with artists like Delta Goodrem and Keith Duffy (as part of the duo Boyzlife) have added to his earnings.
Brian’s wealth comes not just from music, but from strategic appearances in television and reality shows, endorsements, and occasional touring.
Final Thoughts: Westlife’s Collective Legacy—and Individual Fortunes
Westlife’s enduring success—over 55 million records sold worldwide, 14 number-one UK singles, and sold-out tours across continents—has not only solidified their place in pop music history but also provided the foundation for significant individual wealth among its members.
While Kian Egan and Mark Feehily top the wealth rankings within the group, all members have carved out unique paths that reflect their interests and talents beyond the band. Whether through music, television, entrepreneurship, or public advocacy, each has turned fame into personal and financial growth.
Their fortunes may differ, but one thing is clear: Westlife’s legacy continues to generate success, influence, and admiration—both on the charts and in the bank.
