After a year after her untimely passing, Sinead O’Connor’s exact cause of death has been revealed. This revelation provides closure to her fans and the music community.
The Irish Independent reported on July 28 that at least two illnesses were identified as the causes of death for iconic Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor. She died from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Sinéad O’Connor at her home in County Wicklow, Ireland, on February 3, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Sinéad’s death certificate stated that she passed away from “exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma together with low grade lower respiratory tract infection.”
Sinéad O’Connor performing live at Campus Industry Music in Parma, Italy, on January 18, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
Senior coroner Julian Morris confirmed the cause following a post-mortem examination. Sinéad’s former husband, John Reynolds, officially registered the singer’s death in Lambeth, London, on July 24. The beloved artist died in July 2023 at the age of 56.
Sinéad O’Connor and her pet dog at her home in County Wicklow, Ireland, on February 3, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Just months after she died, the Southwark Coroner’s Court confirmed in January 2024 that Sinéad’s death was due to “natural causes,” with no suspicious circumstances involved.
Sinead O’Connor at her home in County Wicklow, Ireland, on February 3, 2012
Sinéad is survived by her three children, though she tragically lost her son Shane in 2022 at the age of 17. Her family expressed profound sadness at Sinéad’s passing.
The family’s statement read, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”
Despite her passing, Sinéad’s legacy will continue to resonate in the world of music and entertainment. Filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson recently shared on Instagram that her documentary film, “NOTHING COMPARES,” will be available for free worldwide for the next seven days.
Kathryn Ferguson attends the Film Independent screening of Nothing Compares at Harmony Gold in Los Angeles on September 20, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
She chose this gesture to commemorate the first anniversary of Sinéad death. Kathryn’s post included a photo of a young Sinéad with a shaved head.
She wore a white shirt, blue denim jeans with folded seams, and black shoes paired with white socks. “It’s hard to believe a year has passed, I think about her everyday,” Kathryn said.
She mentioned that since the film’s release in 2022, global interest has surged. “Many people have reached out from around the globe, asking how they can view it. This includes many who lack access to streaming platforms or live in regions where the film isn’t available,” she explained.
Kathryn added, “Now, everyone can watch it and honour Sinead’s extraordinary talent and her unwavering commitment to standing up for the oppressed.”
Kathryn also praised the efforts of Le Cinéma Club for facilitating this initiative. “Please share this widely with any friends who want or need a vital dose of Sinéad right now,” Ferguson said, encouraging fans.
Sinead O’Connor at the RTÉ Choice Music Prize in Dublin on March 9, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Kathryn was not the only one who had the initiative to pay tribute to Sinead. The National Wax Museum Plus in Dublin attempted to honor the late singer with a wax figure. However, this tribute faced considerable criticism.
Sinéad’s brother, John O’Connor, and many fans described the figure as “hideous,” comparing it to a “mannequin” or a character from “Thunderbirds.” There were also complaints about its placement next to “Star Wars” figures.
In response to the backlash, the museum decided to remove the controversial figure. They acknowledged that it fell short of both their standards and the expectations of fans. They are planning to create a new, more accurate representation of Sinéad to properly honor her legacy.
Sinéad’s legacy remains timeless. She gained international fame in 1990 with her powerful rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a performance that became a defining moment in her career. The accompanying video, showcasing her raw emotion and iconic shaven head, remains one of the most memorable in music history.
Her success continued in 1991 when Rolling Stone magazine named her Artist of the Year. She also won the Brit Award for International Female Solo Artist. Over her career, she released ten studio albums between 1987 and 2014.
Beyond her musical achievements, Sinéad O’Connor was known for her activism and bold social and political statements. She also authored a memoir, “Rememberings,” which was released in 2021.
Sinéad O’Connor performs live at Sydney Opera House on March 19, 2015 | Source: Getty Images
With this rich legacy in mind, the revelation of Sinéad’s true cause of death, coupled with tributes like Ferguson’s, underscores her enduring influence and profound impact on the music industry and beyond. Her journey as an artist and person continues to inspire and resonate, ensuring her legacy remains unforgettable.