Westlife, the Irish boyband that dominated the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like “Flying Without Wings” and “Uptown Girl,” has experienced significant changes since their peak. While the group remains active, their journey has been marked by personal challenges, financial missteps, and internal tensions.(The Sun)
Health Challenges: Mark Feehily’s Battle
In recent years, Westlife’s member Mark Feehily has faced serious health issues. In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Feehily was hospitalized for several months, enduring strict visitor restrictions that kept him apart from his fiancée and young daughter. His condition worsened in 2021 when he developed pneumonia, leading to further complications. By 2022, he had undergone multiple surgeries, including one for an incisional hernia. As a result, Feehily had to temporarily step back from touring to focus on his recovery .(Express.co.uk)
Financial Struggles: Brian McFadden’s £1 Million Loss
Brian McFadden, who left Westlife in 2004, has been open about his financial difficulties. He revealed that he lost approximately £1 million in the Irish property market crash. Despite his early success, McFadden admitted to poor financial planning, stating he had no pension and did not invest in the stock market. He now resides with his partner, Danielle Parkinson, in her home in Rochdale and has no plans to purchase property again .(The Irish Sun, This is Money)
Internal Tensions: The Brian McFadden ‘Snub’
McFadden’s departure from Westlife was sudden and left lasting effects on the band. He cited the need to spend more time with his family as the primary reason for leaving. However, his exit was seen by some as impulsive and selfish. Bandmate Nicky Byrne expressed that McFadden’s decision jeopardized their career, though he acknowledged there was no lingering bad blood .(Express.co.uk, The Irish Sun, Goss.ie)
In 2018, McFadden claimed that Westlife was offered a lucrative deal to reunite as a five-piece, but the other members declined, leading to feelings of being “snubbed” . Byrne clarified that while there was no feud, the band had moved on and could not return to their original lineup .(Dublin Live, Irish Mirror)
Conclusion
Westlife’s journey has been a testament to their resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges. While health issues, financial missteps, and internal tensions have tested the group, they continue to perform and connect with fans worldwide. Their story reflects the complexities of fame and the importance of personal well-being and financial planning.
