Mark Feehily has shared an emotional message with fans, opening up about the difficult decision to step away from Westlife’s upcoming 25th anniversary shows, set for October 27 and 28 at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall. In a deeply personal statement, Mark detailed the ongoing health battles he has faced over the past few years, revealing the physical and emotional toll it has taken—and why he must prioritize his recovery before returning to the stage.
His journey began in August 2020, when what was meant to be a routine surgery quickly spiraled into a life-threatening ordeal. Just days after the procedure, Mark was rushed to the emergency room in severe pain. Doctors discovered he had developed sepsis—a dangerous infection that required immediate emergency surgery and landed him in intensive care. What followed were months in the hospital during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict restrictions keeping him isolated from his loved ones, including his partner and then-infant daughter.
Although he was discharged in December 2020, his health challenges didn’t end there. In late 2021, while preparing for a performance in Newcastle, Mark was once again hospitalized—this time with pneumonia. After missing the rest of the year’s shows, he underwent another surgery in May 2022. Despite his determination to rejoin the band for the Wild Dreams tour just a few months later, his condition worsened, leading to the development of a large incisional hernia. Facing a fourth major surgery, Mark had no choice but to undergo another procedure, which he recently completed.
Though the latest surgery was successful, the recovery ahead will require time and care. With a heavy heart, Mark announced he will temporarily withdraw from all touring activities until he is fully healed. “Believe me, I wish things could be different,” he shared. He expressed deep gratitude to fans for their unwavering support over the years and thanked his family, especially his daughter, for being his source of strength. He also praised his bandmates Shane, Kian, and Nicky, sharing his love for them and faith in their continued success on tour.
Mark closed his message with heartfelt thanks to the medical staff who cared for him throughout this journey and with a promise to return when the time is right. “I’m devastated not to be there to celebrate with you,” he said, “but I have to make the right decision for my health, for my family, and for myself.” Despite the challenges, his spirit remains strong—and fans around the world are already sending back the same positive energy he asked them not to worry about.
