westlife tour without mark

Mark Feehily's health battles as he quits Westlife after sepsis, pneumonia and brutal surgery

Westlife star Mark Feehily now won't appear in the North American or South American legs of the ongoing The Wild Dreams 2022-2024 world tour after a string of health issues

• 20:53, 28 Feb 2024
• Updated 15:11, 6 Mar 2024

Mark Feehily worried fans when he announced he was taking time out from the band to focus on his recovery from years of brutal health problems.

The 43-year-old singer has been a member of the chart-topping band since 1998 - but in recent years has been forced to drop out of live performances. On Wednesday, the Flying Without Wings singer shared a lengthy statement in which he revealed he had battled sepsis and pneumonia and had undergone numerous operations since 2020.

He then went on to explain he would be taking time out of Westlife for an unknown length of time as he continued to heal from his most recent round of surgery. The band are in the midst of an epic 96-show, two-year, world tour titled The Wild Dreams Tour which has already seen the boys perform in the UK, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and North America.

The boys are due to commence the eleventh leg of the tour next month where they will play dates in Canada, the USA and Mexico - with the final leg taking them to Brazil where the tour will finally end on 24 March. Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan and Shane Filan will continue to tour without Mark. Over the months since the tour kicked off in England in July 2022, Mark has been absent for a number of dates.

Pneumonia battle

Fans were first worried for Mark’s health in November 2022 when he was forced to pull out of concerts in Newcastle as he contracted pneumonia. He shared news of his condition at the time while struggling with the illness.

He explained: “I know it's scary when you first hear the word 'Pneumonia', but thankfully, I got to the doctor and the hospital very quickly and got on the antibiotics as soon as possible - so everything is currently under control. I have been informed that the quickest way to recover is to rest and continue the antibiotics. I'm feeling a bit better every day. The nurses and doctors are taking amazing care of me so it should all be over in no time.”

Sadly, Mark was unable to recover for the remainder of that leg of the tour meaning he missed out on shows in Newcastle, Sheffield, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bournemouth, London, Brighton, Nottingham, Cardiff, Belfast and Dublin. He returned when the following leg began in February 2023 as the group toured parts of Asia including Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.

Surgery recovery

Mark missed out on tour dates in Europe and Mexico between May and July in 2023 as he recovered from surgery. Mark opened up about his need to step back from touring at the time, saying: “I want you to know that I was very excited to see you all and perform but this is something that can’t be avoided and I know that you will all still have the time of your lives at what will be some amazing shows! I’ll be there with you all in spirit and very much look forward to getting back on stage with the lads very soon!”

This week he explained why he had been absent from shows in 2023 in more detail. He said: “I was referred to a consultant who told me I needed more surgery which I went ahead with… meaning I was forced to miss more of The Wild Dreams tour. Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and to go back on tour but unfortunately, the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me.”

Mark went on to explain that he then discovered he required even further surgery - which he said was completed, but he didn’t specify when he went back under the knife. He said: “I developed a very large ‘incisional hernia’ and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since [2020]… But I had no option.”

Scary sepsis battle

Ahead of the 2024 North American leg of the Wild Dreams Tour, Mark shared a lengthy statement gently letting fans know he would not be attending any of the North or South American tour dates. He revealed he had been battling various severe health issues since 2020.

He explained: “Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while. It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery.

“Within a few days of this surgery I was in severe pain and was rushed to A&E. I eventually ended that awful day in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) where I was informed that due to a complication with surgery, I had developed severe ‘ Sepsis ’, a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life.”

He went on to explain that he spent months in hospital while he recovered - and that his health scare coincided with Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns, meaning he was denied seeing his family and friends. He said that this then had a major impact on his mental health - and his health has continued to be rocked in the years since.

He then explained this most recent round of surveys went well, but he was being forced to step away from performing in order to heal. He concluded: “I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don’t worry. Sending the most positive vibes in your direction, I will see you very soon beautiful people!”

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Westlife singer Mark Feehily pulls out of tour due to 'health challenges'

The Irish star revealed he has "had ongoing medical problems" since he went for surgery in August 2020 and then developed "severe sepsis" due to a complication.

Thursday 29 February 2024 13:34, UK

Westlife star Mark Feehily has announced he is "temporarily" standing down from all touring with the band due to what he called "health challenges".

The 43-year-old Irish singer, who recently had surgery, said "my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time".

Feehily revealed he has "had ongoing medical problems" since he went for surgery in August 2020 and then developed "severe sepsis" due to a complication.

He described how over three and a half years he was treated in a hospital intensive care unit during COVID lockdown restrictions, was diagnosed with pneumonia and developed a large "incisional hernia" which needed surgery to fix.

"This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option," Feehily said in a statement posted on Instagram.

"That surgery took place recently and thankfully it went according to plan but with that, my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time.

"It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had a chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.

"Believe me, I wish things could be different."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Westlife (@westlife)

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The singer is set to miss the band's last shows of The Wild Dreams Tour, which has been taking place across the globe since 2022, and is due to head to the US and South America from 11 March.

What is sepsis?

The NHS describes sepsis as a "life-threatening" reaction to an infection.

It occurs when an individual's immune system overreacts to an infection and starts to damage the body's own tissues and organs.

There are lots of possible symptoms, the NHS says, which can sometimes be similar to a cold or flu.

Sepsis needs treatment straight away, if not, it can develop into septic shock and cause organs to fail.

The NHS says to call 999 or go to A&E if someone has any of the following symptoms: acting confused, slurred speech, discoloured or blotchy skin and difficulty breathing.

Feehily went on to thank his family, bandmates and medical staff for their support, telling fans: "I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don't worry.

"I will see you very soon beautiful people."

The rest of the group - Shane Filan, Kian Egan and Nicky Byrne - said they would "continue to fly the Westlife flag higher than ever" while wishing Feehily well.

His health battles have meant he missed some of Westlife's shows back in 2022 after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

The band, alongside former member Brian McFadden, found fame after forming in 1998.

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They disbanded in 2012 after 14 years of success, but reunited in 2018 without McFadden - who left the group in 2004.

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Westlife tour in chaos as Mark Feehily pulls out of ALL remaining shows – leaving fans devastated

• Amanda Devlin
• Published : 18:00, 28 Feb 2024
• Updated : 10:02, 29 Feb 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

WESTLIFE star Mark Feehily has pulled out of the band's world tour following secret surgery.

Fans have been left devastated by the shock news as the singer revealed he went under the knife for the fourth time since 2020 after medics found a "very large incisional hernia".

He says the "physical demands" of the concerts and extensive travel has proved "too much for me".

The singer told fans in an emotional post online: "That surgery took place recently and thankfully it went according to plan, but with that, my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time.

"It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife toruing until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual. Believe me, I wish things could be different."

He added: "I'm so devastated that I won't be there to celebrate the upcoming concerts with you and the three lads. I hope you understand that I should have been there - I was so excited to be there - and that I look forward to seeing you all again to make some more magic in the future .

"For now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family and for myself as a person.

"Please don't worry."

The remaining members of the band, Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan will continue the tour without Mark.

"I love you three and know you'll knock it out of the park", Mark added.

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"I'll be there with you in spirit for each and every show while you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world."

Mark Feehily announces he's 'standing down' from touring with Westlife

Fans will be gutted!! 💔

Irish pop-star Mark Feehily has just broken the news that he has been forced to 'stand down from Westlife touring' due to health issues.

Westlife are scheduled to embark on their North American tour next month, visiting the the US, Mexico and Brazil.

In a post shared on social media, Mark writes: "Hello and much love to you all! It’s Mark here…

‘Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while. It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery. Within a few days of this surgery, I was in severe pain and was rushed to A & E. I eventually ended that awful day in ICU where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe ‘Sepsis’, a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life.

He continues: 'In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A & E, this time being told I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of that concerts that December. I was referred to a consultant who told me I needed more surgery which I went ahead with in May 2022 meaning I was forced to miss more of The Wild Dreams Tour .

'Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and go back on tour but unfortunately the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me. I developed a very large ‘incisional hernia’ and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option.

‘That surgery took place recently and thankfully it went accordingly to plan but with that, my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time.

‘It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.

‘To my parents, brothers, close family and friends, thank you for the relentless support as always. Thank you to my beautiful daughter for giving me constant daily motivation and inspiration to keep fighting through all of this and to get better asap, and to my partner Cailean for being there through the most challenging of times.

He closes his statement with an emotional message to his bandmates - Kian, Shane & Mark.

‘To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you’ll knock it out the park. I’ll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world.

‘To all the medical staff who held my hand and kept my spirits lifted (you know who you are), my heartfelt thanks goes out to each and every one of you.

‘I’m so devastated that I won’t be there to celebrate the upcoming concerns with you and the 3 lads. I hope you know and understand that I should have been there (I was so excited to be there) and that I look forward to seeing you all again to make some more magic in the future. But for now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don’t worry. '

'Sending the most positive vibes in your direction, I will see you very soon beautiful people! ‘WESTLIFE FOREVER!

‘Love, Mark Feehily xx’

How and where did Westlife begin?

Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, and Shane Filan bonded over a love of music at school in Sligo. They quickly formed a band with three other school friends, under the name Six As One, before changing it to IOYOU.

Enter Louis Walsh – he was managing fellow Irish band Boyzone at the time, so he helped the guys out and reached out to a few record labels in London.

Simon Cowell showed some interest but asked for half of the band to be replaced and to change their name. They held auditions in Dublin, that’s where Nicky Byrne and Brian McFadden joined the band.

Take a look back at Westlife's stellar career 👇

1998: westlife is born.

Kian Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan knew each other from school, forming a pop group with fellow students Derrick Lacey, Graham Keighron, and Michael Garrett called Six As One in 1997, soon changing their name to IOYOU. When Mark's mum Mae Filan got in touch with Louis Walsh, who managed Boyzone, and he took them on - but when they got shot down by Simon Cowell, Louis fired Derrick, Graham and Michael, and held auditions to replace them. They recruited Nicky Byrne and Brian McFadden, and officially became Westside in July 1998 - quickly changing to Westlife when they discovered a band already called Westside. They signed a £4 million deal with RCA Records, and they were the opening act for both Boyzone and Backstreet Boys, with Ronan Keating of Boyzone co-managing the group with Louis. They recorded their first EP, 'Swear It Again', in 1999, which went to Number 1 in the UK

1999: Debut album and follow-up

The band's self-titled debut album 'Westlife' was released in November 1999, containing singles 'Flying Without Wings', 'Seasons in the Sun' and 'More Than Words', topping the charts in Ireland and going to Number 2 in the UK. The band released their second album 'Coast to Coast' a year later, spawning singles 'Against All Odds', 'What Makes a Man' and 'When You're Looking Like That'. It went to Number 1 in the UK and Ireland, beating Spice Girls' 'Forever', and the boys embarked on their 'Where Dreams Come True Tour' in 2001.

2001: Third album and BRIT Awards

Westlife's third album 'World of Our Own' was released just one year later, containing singles 'Uptown Girl', 'Evergreen' and the album's titular song. It went to Number 1 in the UK and Ireland, and they sold over 12 million records in just three years. Westlife won Best Pop Act at the BRIT Awards in both 2001 and 2002. Their 'Unbreakable - The Greatest Hits Vol. 1' was released in 2002, also going to Number 1 in both the UK and Ireland and Westlife then went on 'The Greatest Hits Tour' in 2003. They released their fourth album 'Turnaround' later that year, spawning singles 'Hey Whatever', 'Mandy' and 'Obvious' - it went to Number 1 in the UK and Ireland.

2004: Bryan McFadden's departure

Bryan announced that he was leaving the group in March 2004 to spend more time with his family, as he had two young daughters with then-wife Kerry Katona (pictured). He also reverted back to using the spelling Brian. His departure came three weeks before the band went on their 'Turnaround Tour', with Brian watching in the audience. The remaining members carried on without him, releasing fifth album '...Allow Us To Be Frank' in 2004 which was a Rat Pack tribute album and contained many covers by Frank Sinatra, going to Number 3 in the UK. They released sixth album 'Face to Face' in 2005, containing 'You Raise Me Up', seventh album 'The Love Album' in 2006, which contained covers of famous love songs and eighth album 'Back Home' in 2007.

2008: 10th anniversary of Westlife and hiatus

To celebrate their 10-year anniversary, Westlife put on a show called '10 Years of Westlife' at Croke Park in Dublin in June 2008. In July, Louis announced that the group would be taking a hiatus for one year until July 2009. They released 10th album 'Where We Are' in November 2009, and they won a Guinness World Record as the top selling album group of the 21st century. Westlife took part in the 2010 charity single 'Everybody Hurts' to raise money for victims of the Haiti earthquake, along with Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey, Take That and Kylie Minogue among many others. Their eleventh album 'Gravity' was released in November 2010, going to Number 1 in Ireland and Number 3 in the UK.

2011: Split and 'The Farewell Tour'

In March 2011, Westlife split from Simon Cowell's label Syco, and released their album 'Greatest Hits' in November 2011, and despite rumours that Brian could reunite with the band for an interview, this never happened. Westlife announced their 'The Greatest Hits Tour' or 'The Farewell Tour' on 18th October 2011, and announced their split a day later. The statement read, 'The decision is entirely amicable and after spending all of our adult life together so far, we want to have a well-earned break and look at new ventures. We would like to thank our fans who have been with us on this amazing journey and are part of our family too. We never imagined when we started out in 1998 that 14 years later we would still be recording, touring and having hits together. It has been a dream come true for all of us. Kian, Mark, Nicky and Shane.'

2012 - 2017: Solo ventures and reunion rumours

After the group's split, all four went onto solo endeavours. Shane released three solo albums: 'You and Me' (2013), 'Right Here' (2015) and 'Love Always' (2017). Mark released his debut solo album 'Fire' in October 2015, performing as an opening act for Mariah Carey and Wet Wet Wet. He released his second solo album 'Christmas' in December 2017. Kian released debut solo album 'Home' (2014), became a coach on The Voice of Ireland and won I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2013. Nicky released his solo album 'Sunlight' in 2016 and represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest in the same year, sadly failing to advance to the final. He also took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2012. Throughout the years between 2011 and 2017, there were many rumours about Westlife reuniting, and whilst they initially said they would never get back together, each member started to hint that they'd like to reunite as the years went on.

2018: Reunion at last

Westlife announced that they were getting back together in October 2018, revealing that they were going on tour and bringing out new music. Brian confirmed in an interview with Closer magazine that he would not be taking part. The band released their first single as 'Westlife 2.0' in January 2019 - 'Hello My Love', which was co-written by Ed Sheeran. They performed it at the National Television Awards in 2019, and released the album 'Spectrum' in November 2019, which went to Number 1 in the UK and Ireland. Ed also co-wrote four other tracks on the album including 'Better Man'. They went on 'The Twenty Tour' in 2019.

2020: Stadiums in the Summer Tour

Westlife were set to embark on their 'Stadiums in the Summer Tour' in June 2020, visiting 21 venues around Europe including Scarborough Open Air Theatre, Cardiff City Stadium and Wembley Stadium among others. Sadly, it was cancelled due to Government advice around the Coronavirus pandemic.

2021: New record label and Wembley shows

Westlife broke the news on St Patrick's Day that they had signed a deal with Warner Music UK label East West Records, having left EMI Records earlier in the year. They also added a second Wembley show date - going on to perform at the venue on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd August 2021.

2022: 'The Wild Dreams Tour'

The band released their 'Wild Dreams' album on 26th November 2021, going on to hit the road on a sell-out UK and Ireland tour. The lads performed all of their greatest hits 'Swear It Again', 'Flying Without Wings' and 'World of our Own' as well as tracks from 'Wild Dreams'. They performed gigs in Dublin's Aviva Stadium and two shows in Belfast's SSE Arena.

2024: North and South American tour dates

Westlife will be performing a series of tour dates in March 2024, visiting Canada, the United States, Mexico and Brazil. Mark Feehily won't be joining the band on tour , having been forced to 'stand down' from Westlife touring due to health issues.

Everything you need to know about Westlife

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• mark feehily

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Westlife fans worried after star quits tour due to ‘challenging’ health issues

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Westlife fans have expressed their concern after singer Mark Feehily pulled out of their ongoing tour due to health issues.

The 43-year-old took to Instagram on Wednesday to explain his decision, telling fans that his ‘challenges’ began in August 2020 whilst having surgery, which led to needing intensive care treatment.

Due to complications, he developed sepsis and needed more surgery to save his life. The potentially fatal condition occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection and starts to damage the body’s tissues and organs.

Now that the recovering singer has pulled out of future Westlife tour dates, worried fans have expressed their concern, sending good wishes to one of the group’s original members.

On Instagram, devotee Claire said: ‘We are all worried about you and just want you to get better. Please don’t rush, take all the time you need.’

Over on Reddit, Hassaan commented: ‘Oh god, I didn’t realise he had it that bad in 2020. I feel for him, as it must be frustrating, but I just hope he’s better soon.’

A Westlife fan account from Brazil said: ‘Please take care of yourself and we love you so much! Take your time that you need to heal! I’ll see you in the next tour happy and healthy!’

Mark detailed his hospital experience on Instagram: ‘I spent the next few months in hospital. It was during lockdown. For months, due to strict Covid restrictions, I was not allowed any visitors including my fiancée [Cailean O’Neill] and my then 10-month-old daughter [Layla], ’ he recalled.

‘It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU.’

In the middle of Westlife’s Wild Dreams worldwide tour , which he performed alongside Shane Filan , Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan , Mark ended up back in hospital and was told he had pneumonia. He had surgery again in May 2022.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C35iR79oueN/?img_index=2

‘Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and to go back on tour but unfortunately, the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me.

‘I developed a very large ‘incisional hernia’ and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option,’ he continued.

Luckily, everything went according to plan, and Mark is now intent on making sure that his recovery is an ‘absolute priority’.

‘It is with the utmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual,’ he shared.

‘Believe me, I wish things could be different!’

Mark then thanked medical staff, fans, family, friends and Cailean for their ongoing support.

‘To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you’ll knock it out of the park. I’ll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world,’ the statement continued.

Fans can rest assured that Mark has every intention of returning to the fold once he is fully recovered.

He concluded the post by promising to see everyone soon and celebrating the longevity of Westlife.

‘For now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don’t worry. Sending the most positive vibes in your direction, I will see you very soon beautiful people! WESTLIFE FOREVER! Love, Mark Feehily xx,’ he wrote.

His bandmates then shared a message of their own on the official social media page for the band.

‘We would like to take this opportunity to send our brother, best friend and fellow bandmate, Mark, so many well wishes as he takes the necessary time he needs to recover,’ it began.

‘Mark has been so strong in continuing to show up on stage despite going through such a turbulent time with his health and we completely respect that he must now focus on getting better so he can return to the stage when he is fit and well to do so! In the meantime, we will continue to fly the Westlife flag higher than ever for you guys.’

The trio will continue with the world tour which is set to make stops in Canada, the United States, and Mexico before concluding in Brazil on March 24.

Westlife were put together by rumoured Celebrity Big Brother housemate Louis Walsh in 1998 and originally included Brian McFadden before he quit six years later. They have achieved an impressive 15 number-one singles, including Flying Without Wings, You Raise Me Up, and Uptown Girl, and 36 number-one albums worldwide.

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Westlife Announces Historic Spring 2024 North American Tour Westlife: The Hits Tour – A St Patrick’s Day Special

Highly Anticipated Tour Marks the Global Pop Superstars’ First-Ever North American Concerts Across Storied, 25+ Year Career

Tickets on sale starting friday, august 18, uk & ireland’s top-selling album group of the 21 st century; 36 no. 1 albums worldwide; 55+ million records sold; surpassed 1 billion youtube views.

Global pop superstars – and the UK & Ireland’s top-selling album group of the 21 st century – Westlife  today announce Westlife: The Hits Tour – A St Patrick’s Day Special , their first-ever North American tour dates in their incredible 20+ year career.

In a nod to their Irish roots, Westlife will perform their colossal catalog of hits-to-date – including “Swear It Again,” “Flying Without Wings,” “World Of Our Own,” “My Love,” “If I Let You Go,” and “Hello My Love” among countless others – with tour dates surrounding St. Patrick’s Day 2024:

March 13 – Toronto, ON @ Meridian Hall

March 14 – Boston, MA @ MGM Music Hall At Fenway

March 16 – New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall

March 18 – Chicago, IL @ The Chicago Theatre

The Citi presale begins Tuesday, August 15 at 10am local time and general tickets will be available for purchase beginning Friday, August 18 at 10am local time. For all details, please visit www.westlife.com .

In celebration of the news, Westlife – formed in 1998 and consisting of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily – will make their debut U.S. television performance on the No. 1 morning show Good Morning America on August 21. During the 8AM hour, they will perform their iconic 1999 debut single “Flying Without Wings,” which entered the UK charts at No. 1. They will also appear on GMA3: What You Need to Know with a performance of “Hello My Love,” the title track and lead single from their 11 th studio album Hello My Love . “Hello My Love” was written specifically for Westlife by Ed Sheeran and Steve Mac.

Having heard their fans loud and clear over the years, Westlife: The Hits Tour – A St Patrick’s Day Special offers longtime North American fans the unforgettable first chance to see the band perform live closer to home. Additionally, Westlife: The Hits Tour – A St Patrick’s Day Special delivers fans of pop music an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s most successful and influential pop bands of all time.

Westlife has sold 55+ million records, earned 36 No. 1 albums, amassed 3+ billion global streams, surpassed 1 billion YouTube views and sold 5.5+ million concert tickets worldwide. The group rose to fame with their debut international self-titled studio album Westlife in 1999. They have achieved an incredible 14 UK No. 1 singles, behind only Elvis Presley and The Beatles. Westlife has received numerous accolades including one World Music Award, two Brit Awards, four MTV Awards, four Record of the Year Awards.

The global pop kings most recently launched their Wild Dreams Tour in summer 2022 performing across the UK, including a sold-out headline show at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium which was shown live in cinemas across the UK and Europe. Their most recent record, Wild Dreams , was released in November 2021 and marks the band’s 12 th studio album.

Westlife: The Hits Tour – A St Patrick’s Day Special

About Westlife

Westlife , the most successful Irish boy band was formed in 1998 and consists of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily. The group rose to fame with their debut international self-titled studio album “Westlife” (1999). As one of pop music’s most influential boy bands, Westlife have had 36 No.1 albums worldwide and received numerous accolades including one World Music Award, two Brit Awards, four MTV Awards, four Record of the Year Awards. To date, Westlife have sold over 55 million records worldwide and are the only band to have their first seven singles enter the UK chart at No. 1. They also have the most singles of any artist to debut at No. 1 in the UK. Overall, Westlife has had an incredible 14 No.1 singles, behind only Elvis Presley and The Beatles. As a live act, they have sold five million concert tickets worldwide and counting. The global pop kings kicked off their Wild Dreams Tour in summer 2022 performing across the UK, including a sold-out headline show at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium which was shown live in cinemas across the UK and Europe where they performed their greatest hits “Swear It Again,” “Flying Without Wings,” “World Of Our Own,” “My Love,” “If I Let You Go,” “Uptown Girl,” “Hello My Love” as well as fresh pop anthems from their new album.

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Why Is Mark Feehily Stepping Back From Westlife Tour? Find Out As Singer Opens Up About Health Battle

Mark Feehily of Westlife steps back from the band's tour due to health concerns, expressing gratitude for support and assuring fans of his return.

Why is Mark Feehily stepping back from Westlife Tour?

Who is westlife.

Mark Feehily, a member of the chart-topping band since 1998, alarmed fans with news of a hiatus to prioritize his health recovery. The 43-year-old singer disclosed a challenging journey battling sepsis and pneumonia, along with undergoing multiple surgeries since 2020. Despite his struggles, Feehily's resilience shines through as he confronts his health issues head-on. Fans rally around the Flying Without Wings singer, sending messages of support and encouragement as he takes the necessary steps towards healing.

Mark Feehily took to Instagram on Wednesday to elaborate on his decision, explaining to fans that his 'challenges' began in August 2020 during surgery, leading to intensive care treatment. Complications arose, resulting in sepsis development, necessitating further surgery to preserve his life. This potentially fatal condition occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection, damaging the body's tissues and organs.

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Mark detailed his hospital experience on Instagram stating, “I spent the next few months in hospital. It was during lockdown. For months, due to strict Covid restrictions, I was not allowed any visitors including my fiancée [Cailean O’Neill] and my then 10-month-old daughter [Layla]. It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU.”

He continued, “Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and to go back on tour but unfortunately, the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me. I developed a very large ‘incisional hernia’ and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option. Luckily, everything went according to plan, and Mark is now intent on making sure that his recovery is an ‘absolute priority’.”

Mark added, “It is with the utmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual. Believe me, I wish things could be different!”

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Expressing gratitude, Mark extended heartfelt thanks to medical professionals, fans, family, friends, and Cailean for their unwavering support throughout his health journey.

He said, “To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you’ll knock it out of the park. I’ll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world.”

Concluding his message, Mark assured everyone of his imminent return and expressed eagerness to celebrate the enduring legacy of Westlife with fans in the near future.

He wrote, “For now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don’t worry. Sending the most positive vibes in your direction, I will see you very soon beautiful people! WESTLIFE FOREVER! Love, Mark Feehily xx.”

Westlife, formed by rumored Celebrity Big Brother housemate Louis Walsh in 1998, initially featured Brian McFadden before his departure six years later. With 15 number-one singles like Flying Without Wings, You Raise Me Up, and Uptown Girl, and 36 number-one albums globally, their success is undeniable.

The upcoming eleventh leg of the tour, scheduled for next month, will see performances in Canada, the USA, and Mexico. However, Mark's absence will be noticeable as Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, and Shane Filan continue the tour without him. Despite Mark's intermittent absence since the tour's commencement in England in July 2022, the band remains committed to delivering memorable performances.

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Westlife's Mark Feehily finally 'back to normal' after difficult health battle

Westlife hitmaker Mark Feehily has issued a positive update after battling pneumonia last year, sparking the singer to drop out of several of the band’s tour dates

• 10:05, 6 JAN 2023

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Mark Feehily has revealed that he’s finally feeling better after a difficult health battle last year.

In late 2022, the Westlife singer was diagnosed with pneumonia and had to drop out of a number of the band’s tour dates in a bid to recover.

Several weeks on from his health scare, Mark, 42, has announced that his doctor has given him the green light to resume his normal life.

Taking to Instagram on Thursday, 5 January, he wrote, while giving the nod to one of Westlife’s biggest songs: “Hey all, great news… I’ll be FLYING WITHOUT WINGS once more!”

Mark continued: “Finally the doctor has said that I can start getting myself back to normal. I was in his waiting room earlier worried he was going to tell me ‘no you’re still not right’ but he was very happy with how I am doing.

“I have so much thanks to give. I won’t lie, although there are lots of people much worse off than me, the past 6 weeks have been very difficult. Weirdly the most difficult thing was not being ill (that wasn’t easy either!) it was having no choice but to sit back and watch my own band be on tour without me and miss all of the shared moments of joy and happiness with the other lads onstage and of course the interaction with the audiences and fans.”

He went on to brand his bandmates Shane Filan, Kian Egan, and Nicky Byrne as “legends” after managing to rejig their show last minute when Mark dropped out of their Newcastle gig just an hour before their performance.

“The way you handled it shows how talented and professional you 3 are! You kept the @westlife flag flying for the rest of December and I’m so grateful for that,” Mark added.

Mark further thanked fans for continuing to support the group in light of his absence, as well as their kind messages while he recovered. He also thanked his management, the tour crew, as well as his family and friends for their support.

People have since voiced their excitement in the wake of Mark’s good news, revelling in the singer’s positive health update.

“Best news ever,” wrote songwriter Amy Wadge, as Steps ’ Ian Watkins said: “YAYYYYYYY,” following heart and praise-hand emojis.

Noting his stint on The Masked Singer , bandmate Nicky quipped: “But is RoboBunny ok too?”

Dozens of others echoed similar excited sentiments ahead of Mark re-joining the band on tour.

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Mark Feehily says watching Westlife perform without him was an ‘out of body’ experience

The singer was forced to pull out of live dates after suffering with pneumonia, article bookmarked.

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Mark Feehily has recalled his experience while suffering from pneumonia for a month last year.

The Westlife singer was forced to pull out of the band’s live dates on their Wild Dreams tour in November due to the illness.

Westlife is usually made up of Feehilly, Brian McFadden, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan.

Now, Feehily has opened up about his emotions while missing out on the gigs, saying he is “very glad” that the illness is behind him.

"It was almost like being back in lockdown because, for the first couple of weeks, I was just in bed all the time,” the 42-year-old singer explained.

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"It was an almost out-of-body experience watching the Westlife tour go ahead while I lay in bed.

"It was the first time any of us had missed a stint of gigs in 25 years, and I’m very glad it’s behind me.”

According to the singer, the doctors had initially assured him that he was only suffering from a “bad chest infection” and that he would be “fine”.

Feehily told The Daily Star that when he first heard the doctor say pneumonia, it had “ scared the living daylights out of me”.

“I’m very glad it’s behind me,” he added.

Revealing the news back in November, Feehily posted a statement to inform the band’s fans of his predicament.

Westlife's Shane Filan, Markus Feehily, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan

“Hey to all the fans, Mark here,” he wrote. “Firstly, I’d like to say a sincere thank you to everybody for sending their love and get well soon messages – it means so much.

“I really was gutted to miss the weekend shows in Newcastle but I started to feel quite unwell on Friday and the doctors have confirmed that it’s a bout of pneumonia.”

“I know it’s scary when you first hear the word ‘pneumonia’ but thankfully I got to the doctor and hospital very quickly and got on the antibiotics as soon as possible, so everything is currently under control.”

After explaining that he had been advised to rest and continue his course of antibiotics, the singer said that he was “feeling a bit better every day” and that this “should all be over in no time”.

“This does however mean missing more gigs which is horrible but I’ll be back on stage as soon as I get the all-clear,” he added.

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Westlife's Wild Dreams tour wows Newcastle as show goes on without Mark Feehily

Mark Feehily was still missing as Westlife performed their second Wild Dreams tour show in Newcastle on Saturday night

• 12:47, 27 NOV 2022
• Updated 14:05, 27 NOV 2022

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They might have been a member down but Westlife were still on top form as they played their second night as a trio in Newcastle on Saturday night.

Just 24 hours earlier, Mark Feehily took ill and was forced to pull out of the lads’ first gig at the Utilita Arena and, sadly for their packed house of fans, he hasn’t recovered in time to be on stage on Saturday. That said, while facing an incredibly tough task of filling the void of Mark’s trademark soaring vocals, his bandmates Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan did him proud and made sure that the thousands upon thousands of ticket holders still got what they came for.

Wild Dreams tour setlist opener Starlight is one of, if not, the best song Westlife have released in years, with the confetti burst before the final chorus helping it to hit even harder, on a Saturday night where everyone was most definitely up for a party.

READ MORE: Westlife's Mark Feehily absent from Newcastle show 'under doctors orders' as he issues statement

Like some of the other boy bands of their late 90s/early 00s heyday, Westlife really don’t get the credit they deserve for just how good their back catalogue is with a back to back of When You’re Looking Like That, Fool Again, If I Let You Go, My Love and Swear It Again giving a reminder of just why they are one of the most successful pop acts in British music history.

All of the above have the ability to make you sing your heart out and go for a passionate air grab the minute the they start and, even though it would have been fantastic to hear Mark’s amazing vocals as the key changes kick in, Shane, Nicky and Kian fired on all cylinders to make sure they still packed a punch.

The ABBA medley half way through was an unexpected treat and saw one pop juggernaut pay tribute to the best of all time to rousing aplomb, before What About Now and Mandy threatened to lift the roof off the arena.

Saturday night’s show was one that will surely live long in Westlife’s memory, the wall of sound the greeted them stayed there throughout proceedings as the packed crowd became the fourth member by singing every single word back at them. Brilliant support act Lyra, who made sure the night got off to a cracking start wirh songs like the earwormingly good Falling, was on the sidelines as the lads gave a masterclass in how to hold an audience in the palm of your hand.

Flying Without Wings was an emotional sucker punch, World of Our Own mixed with interludes Beyoncé's Crazy in Love (including the famous booty shake!) was the mash up we never knew we needed and, by the time You Raise Me Up came around the bring the curtain down, the atmosphere in the arena was at fever pitch.

Mark was a big miss, but there’s no way Westlife on a Saturday night in Newcastle was going to be anything but amazing.

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Westlife tour in chaos as Mark Feehily pulls out of ALL remaining shows – leaving fans devastated

• Amanda Devlin
• Published : 13:00 ET, Feb 28 2024
• Updated : 8:15 ET, Feb 29 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

WESTLIFE star Mark Feehily has pulled out of the band's world tour following secret surgery.

Fans have been left devastated by the shock news as the singer revealed he went under the knife for the fourth time since 2020 after medics found a "very large incisional hernia".

He says the "physical demands" of the concerts and extensive travel has proved "too much for me".

The singer told fans in an emotional post online: "That surgery took place recently and thankfully it went according to plan, but with that, my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time.

"It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife toruing until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual. Believe me, I wish things could be different."

He added: "I'm so devastated that I won't be there to celebrate the upcoming concerts with you and the three lads. I hope you understand that I should have been there - I was so excited to be there - and that I look forward to seeing you all again to make some more magic in the future .

"For now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family and for myself as a person.

"Please don't worry."

The remaining members of the band, Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne and Shane Filan will continue the tour without Mark.

"I love you three and know you'll knock it out of the park", Mark added.

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"I'll be there with you in spirit for each and every show while you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world."

Mark suddenly quits Westlife days ahead of start of world tour

The 43-year-old has explained his ongoing poor health

• 06:38, 29 FEB 2024
• Updated 07:25, 29 FEB 2024

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Westlife singer Mark Feehily, 43, has announced he is quitting the band days before their world tour. The group originally consisted of Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Mark Feehily, Shane Filan, and Brian McFadden - who left in 2004.

Taking to the band's official account on Instagram, Mark shared a lengthy message. He said: "Hello and much love to you all! It's Mark here.. Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while. It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery. Within a few days of this surgery I was in severe pain and was rushed into A&E.

"I eventually ended that awful day in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe "Sepsis", a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life. I spent the next few months in hospital. It was during lockdown. For months, due to strict Covid restrictions, I was not allowed any visitors including my fiance and my then 10-month-old daughter. It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU."

Mark was discharged from hospital in December 2020 but has had ongoing medical problems. He said: "In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A&E, this time being told I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of the concerts that December. I was referred to a consultant who told me I needed more surgery which I went ahead with in May 2022 meaning I was forced to miss more of The Wild Dreams tour.

"Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and to go back on tour but unfortunately the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me. I developed a very large 'incisional hernia' and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option."

Mark said he needs to now focus on his recovery. "It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual," he shared. "Believe me, I wish things could be different! I would like to thank you so very much for your support and understanding of me and my health over the past few years."

Mark added: "To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you'll knock it out of the park. I'll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world."

He wrote: "But for now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family, and for myself as a person. Please don't worry. Sending the most positive vibes in your direction, I will see you very soon beautiful people! WESTLIFE FOREVER! Love, Mark Feehily xx."

Kian, Nicky and Shane shared their own joint statement, they said: "We would like to take this opportunity to send our brother, best friend and fellow bandmate, Mark, so many well wishes as he takes the necessary time he needs to recover.

"Mark has been so strong in continuing to show up on stage despite going through such a turbulent time with his health and we completely respect that he must now focus on getting better so he can return to the stage when he is fit and well to do so! In the meantime, we will continue to fly the Westlife flag higher than ever for you guys."

Fans have since sent their support to Mark, with one writing: "Hey Mark, sending you lots of love and support during your recovery. While we're sad you won't be on the upcoming tours, your health is the top priority. Take the time you need to heal, and we'll be here eagerly waiting for your return." A second penned: "It is with great sadness that I receive this news, my heart is broken. We will miss you very much here in Brazil, even more so after more than 20 years without setting foot here. I hope you have a speedy recovery and get back to doing what you love soon. We love you, Mark! Take care of yourself!"

Another added: "Oh, Mark, I'm truly shocked to hear about this. Your well-being always comes first. Please, no apologies are needed. Wishing you a speedy recovery, and we're sending lots of love your way."

Westlife are set to head on a world tour starting in Canada next month, as well as stopping off in the United States, Mexico and Brazil. Last year, Mark pulled out of Westlife shows in Denmark, Sweden, Mexico and Cardiff .

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Westlife break silence on ‘turbulent time’ after shock Mark Feehily announcement

• Kate Stafford
• Published : 11:33, 29 Feb 2024
• Updated : 11:33, 29 Feb 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

WESTLIFE members have broken their silence after Mark Feehily's shock tour announcement.

Fans were left devastated when the World Of Our Own singer announced he was pulling out of ALL shows to "fully recover" after undergoing surgery.

Mark revealed his secret surgery hell, telling fans how he's gone under the knife for the fourth time since 2020 after medics found a "very large incisional hernia".

The 43-year-old said the "physical demands" of the concerts and extensive travel proved "too much" for him and so he would "temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring".

The band are set to embark on a string of US and South American dates next month.

Fellow Westlife band members Nicky Byrne, Shane Filan and Kian Egan broke their silence to reveal they "completely respect" dad-of-one Mark's decision.

READ MORE IN WESTLIFE

Westlife in chaos as singer pulls out of tour - leaving fans devastated

Nicky Byrne’s fans call him ‘sexy’ as he shows off muscles and preps for tour

They said: "We would like to take this opportunity to send our brother, best friend and fellow band mate, Mark, so many well wishes as he takes the necessary time he needs to recover.

"Mark has been so strong in continuing to show up on stage despite going through such a turbulent time with his health."

They added: "He must must now focus on getting better so he can return to stage when he is fit and well to do so!"

And the Westlife singers made sure to address their loyal fans on the situation as they continued: "In the meantime, we will continue to fly the Westlife flag higher than ever for you guys. Love Nicky, Shane & Kian x."

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Mark, who's dad to four-year-old Layla with fiance Cailean O'Neill, told how he "wished things could be different" but urged fans not to worry.

He added: "I'm so devastated that I won't be there to celebrate the upcoming concerts with you and the three lads.

"I hope you understand that I should have been there - I was so excited to be there - and that I look forward to seeing you all again to make some more magic in the future.

"For now, I have to make the right decision for my health and wellbeing, for my family and for myself as a person.

"Please don't worry."

Gutted fans were quick to share their love for the Westlife singer.

Lien wrote: "This is probably the saddest news of the day! Shane will have to work and shoulder his 200 strength for Mark! Come on talented Westlife boys!"

Monika said: "We Love u Mark!!!Take your time!!"

Amanda commented: "Westlife are not Westlife without Mark he makes that band."

While Ian added: "I wish Mark well. Having said that, why don’t they postpone or reschedule these dates?"

And Aileen wrote: "Take care Mark. You need to do what is right for you, and your health."

Sligo singer Mark previously battled pneumonia and underwent surgery during a difficult health battle.

He had to pull out of several shows during the band's Wild Dreams tour last summer.

HEALTH HELL

And he's now revealed how in 2020 he ended up in intensive care after developing sepsis and spent months in hospital.

He said: "Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while. It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery.

"Within a few days of this surgery, I was in severe pain and was rushed into A&E.

"I eventually ended that awful day in ICU where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe sepsis, a life threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life. I spent the next few months in hospital."

He added: "It was during lockdown. For months, due to strict Covid restrictions, I was not allowed any visitors including my fiancé and my then 10-month-old daughter,

"It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU.

"I was eventually discharged from hospital in December 2020 but I have had ongoing medical problems as a result of it all.

"In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A&E, this time being told I had pneumonia.

"I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of the concerts that December.

"I was referred to a consultant who told me I needed more surgery which I went ahead with in May 2022 meaning I was forced to miss more of The Wild Dreams tour."

SECRET STRUGGLE

Mark continued: "Three months after that surgery, I tried my best to soldier on for you guys and to go back on tour but unfortunately the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me.

"I developed a very large 'incisional hernia' and I was told that I needed further surgery to fix it. This would be my fourth major surgery since the start of it all, but I had no option.

"That surgery took place recently and thankfully it went according to plan but with that, my recovery must now become my absolute priority at this time."

Mark paid tribute to his family and friends for their support during his health hell.

He said: "To my parents, brothers, close family and friends, thank you for the relentless support as always.

"Thank you to my beautiful daughter for giving me constant daily motivation and inspiration to keep fighting through all of this and to get better asap and to my partner Cailean for being there through the most challenging of times.

"To Shane, Kian and Nicky, I love you three and I know you'll knock it out of the park. I'll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world.

"To all the medical staff who held my hand and kept my spirit lifted (you know who you are!), my heartfelt thanks goes out to each and every one of you."

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Mark Feehily: Watching Westlife perform without me was like out-of-body experience

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Mark Feehily says it was like an "out-of-body" experience watching the Westlife tour go ahead without him last year.

The 42-year-old singer was out of action for four weeks after being struck down with pneumonia, forcing him to miss several of the band's shows on their 'Wild Dreams' tour last year, and he is "very glad" the ordeal is behind him.

He said: "It was almost like being back in lockdown because, for the first couple of weeks, I was just in bed all the time.

"It was an almost out-of-body experience watching the Westlife tour go ahead while I lay in bed.

"It was the first time any of us had missed a stint of gigs in 25 years, and I'm very glad it's behind me."

Mark admitted he felt terrified when told he was suffering from pneumonia, because he wasn't completely sure what that meant.

He is quoted by the Daily Star newspaper's Wired column as saying: "At the start, the word pneumonia scared the living daylights out of me when the doctor first said it to me."

But the star - who is currently touring Asia with the band - told how the doctor assured him it was like a "very bad chest infection" and he would be "fine" if it was treated properly and he took care of himself.

In November, it was revealed Mark had been forced to pull out of some of Westlife's shows due to pneumonia.

He said in a statement: "Firstly, I'd like to say a huge sincere thank you to everybody for sending their and get well soon messages - it means so much. I was really gutted to miss the weekend shows in Newcastle but I started to feel quite unwell on Friday and doctors have confirmed that it is a bout of pneumonia."

Mark vowed to return to the stage alongside his bandmates - Shane Filan, 43, Nicky Byrne, 44, and Kian Egan, 42 - as soon as he was given the "all-clear".

He continued: "I have been informed that the quickest way to recovery is to rest and continue the antibiotics. I'm feeling a bit better every day. The nurses and motors are taking amazing care of me so it should all be over in no time.

"This does, however, mean missing more gigs which is horrible but I'll be back on stage as soon as I get the all clear.

"Until then, Nicky, Shane and Kian will continue to fly the Westlife flag high for all of us. Please scream even louder than usual for those three legends in my absence! Sending love to you all, I hope to see you back on the road very soon!"

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Westlife Sets ‘Hits’ Tour of North America

"North America, we can't wait to see you! It's gonna be EPIC," reads a message on the group's socials.

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Westlife is going west for a first-ever tour of North America.

The hitmaking Irish boyband will embark on a multi-date trek in 2024, timed around St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland’s national day of celebration.

Westlife: The Hits Tour is scheduled to kick off March 13 at Meridan Hall in Toronto, followed by dates at Boston’s MGM Music Hall at Fenway (March 14), New York’s Radio City Music Hall (March 16), and Chicago Theatre (March 18).

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Formed in 1998, Westlife made an immediate, and sizeable, impact in the British Isles.

They hold the record for most consecutive No. 1s in the U.K. (seven) and most singles to debut at the summit.

All told, they’ve scored eight No. 1 albums in the U.K. and have an impressive haul of 14 No. 1 singles, one of the biggest for any act, surpassed only by the Beatles and Elvis Presley. Twenty-five Westlife singles have hit the U.K. top 10.

According to Warner Music’s EastWest division, which signed the act in 2021 — also on St. Patrick’s Day — the group has sold over 55 million records worldwide.

The foursome of Shane Filan, Mark Feehily, Kian Egan, and Nicky Byrne (past member Brian McFadden is no longer with the band) reunited for the 2019 album release Spectrum , which again ruled the Official U.K. Albums Chart. Their career trophy collection includes two Brit Awards, four MTV Awards and a venue record at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, which they sold-out five times.

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Mark Feehily 'quits' Westlife tour a year on from being rushed to hospital in Newcastle

M ark Feehily has announced he has temporarily 'quit' touring with Westlife, telling fans that he needs more time to fully recover from the 'turbulent journey' he's had with his health over the last few years, which took a turn for the worse when he was struck down by pneumonia in Newcastle at the end of 2022.

Mark's stunning vocals have been at the centre of Westlife since the group scored their first number 1 single 25 years ago in 1999, with his trademark voice featured on the groups many hits like Flying Without Wings, You Raise Me Up and Hello My Love. He joined bandmates Kian Egan, Shane Filan and NIcky Byrne for their first sell out reunion tour in 2019, before the lads then hit the road again three years later, following the success of comeback albums Spectrum and Wild Dreams.

However, disaster struck when Westlife arrived to perform a series of shows at Newcastle's Utilita in November 2022, with him being advised to miss the gigs 'under doctor's orders,' before then confirming a few days later that he'd been diagnosed with pneumonia. Mark addressed whist happened in Newcastle in the statement he released on Wednesday afternoon (February 28) in which he announced he'd be taking a step back from all Westlife shows for the foreseeable.

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He explained in the social media post that his health issues started in 2020 when he contracted life threatening condition sepsis after surgery, After becoming ill in Newcastle in November 2022 and ending up in A&E, he then went ahead with more surgery in May, meaning he missed more shows, before returning to the stage months later and trying to 'soldier on' for fans. The singer explained that the physical demands of touring left him with a 'incisional hernia' which meant he needed even more surgery.

While that went to plan, Mark, who appeared as Robobunny on The Masked Singer series 3, told fans he needed to make his health his 'absolute priority' at the moment and therefore, with 'deepest regret' would be temporarily standing down from all Westlife touring commitments.

Westlife are due to kick off a tour of Canada and America in a few weeks time, which will take them to the likes of Toronto, Boston and New York, before moving onto Brazil. After thanking fans, he had a message for his three bandmates, writing: "Shane Kian, Nicky, I love you three and I know you'll smash it out of the park. I'll be there with you in spirit for each and every show whilst you continue to fly the Westlife flag around the world."

Mark vowed to see everyone again to 'make magic in the future,.' while once3 again repeating how devastated he was to have to make the decision to step down from touring.