Christy Dignam Has Died At The Age Of 63

Lead singer of Aslan Christy Dignam has died at the age of 63.

He was diagnosed with cancer in 2013 and has been receiving palliative care at home since last December.

Christy Dignam grew up in Finglas and is known for his role in the band Aslan and for speaking openly about his drug addiction.

Last September the band cancelled a 40th anniversary gig in the 3Arena due to Christy suffering a health set back.

It had been rescheduled for the 18th of March this year, however after Christy's family released a statement to say he's receiving palliative care, the band announced all future shows are cancelled.

In July 2022, Christy was admitted to Beaumont Hospital and spent six months in the care of the Haematology and Cardiac Care team.

Since December of last year, Christy's been at home with his family, and a palliative care team.

Christy Dignam is survived by his wife of over 30 years Kathryn, his daughter Kiera and three grand children.

Statement by President Higgins on the death of Christy Dignam https://t.co/H7VHqUKzzl pic.twitter.com/CabHWErESe

— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) June 13, 2023

Prisident Michael D Higgins has paid tribute, saying: "People across Ireland and beyond will have heard with great sadness of the death of Christy Dignam.

"For the last 40 years, Christy and his bandmates in Aslan have made an enormous contribution to the cultural life of our nation. In addition to their well-loved albums and hit singles such as ‘This Is’ and ‘Crazy World’, Aslan will be remembered in particular for their live shows and their remarkable connection with their audience.

"Christy was central to that connection, with his passionate performances ensuring a memorable night every time Aslan played – and there were many nights, with Christy and the band showing an endless dedication to touring throughout the country.

"As a result, people in nearly every town in Ireland will have their own memories of seeing them play and will feel like they had a personal connection with Christy. Indeed, I will personally remember a typically memorable performance from Christy in Áras an Uachtaráin in 2016.

"Over recent years, all of us have been struck by the dignity with which Christy lived with his illness and admired his dedication in continuing to both perform and record, including his 2021 solo album, despite the challenges which he faced.

"It is hard to believe that he has left us.

"May I express my deepest condolences to Christy’s wife Kathryn, to his daughter Kiera, to his bandmates in Aslan, and to his wide circle of family and friends."

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