Pathetic Facts

Irish music stars died at age 34

Here are 5 famous musicians from Republic of Ireland died at 34:

Robert St Leger Fowler

Robert St Leger Fowler (April 7, 1891-June 13, 1925) was an Irish personality.

He was born in Dublin, Ireland and was an accomplished athlete, excelling in both rugby and cricket. Fowler was a member of the British Army and fought in World War I, where he was wounded in action. After the war, he became a journalist for the Sunday Express and gained notoriety for his unconventional writing style and irreverent humor. Fowler was also a close friend of fellow writer and satirist, Hilaire Belloc. However, his life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 34 due to complications from tuberculosis. Despite his short life, Fowler's literary contributions have had a lasting impact, with his work inspiring future generations of writers in Ireland and beyond.

Fowler's biggest contribution to Irish literature was his first novel, "The Curse of the Snake," which was published in 1924. The novel was a satirical take on Ireland's revolutionary period, and was praised for its sharp wit and understated humor. In addition to his writing, Fowler was also a talented artist and illustrator, and his cartoons and sketches were featured in several publications throughout his career. Despite his success, Fowler was known for his modesty and reluctance to seek out the limelight. His untimely death was a great loss to the literary world, and he is remembered as one of Ireland's most talented and influential writers.

Fowler's legacy extended beyond his literary and artistic accomplishments. He was also a staunch supporter of Irish nationalism, and his political views and activism played a role in his writing. He was a member of the Irish Volunteers, a paramilitary organization that fought for Irish independence, and he actively campaigned for the release of political prisoners. He was known for his controversial opinions and his willingness to speak out against British rule in Ireland, despite the potential risks to his personal safety.

Beyond his political and artistic pursuits, Fowler was also known for his adventurous spirit. He was an avid traveller and explorer, and he documented his journeys through his writing and sketches. In 1913, he embarked on a three-year trip around the world, visiting countries such as Australia, Japan, and South Africa. His travelogue, "Wanderings: Three Years Among the Mountains and Deserts of the World," was published in 1922 and remains a popular work of travel literature today.

Despite his successes, Fowler struggled with chronic health problems throughout his life, including asthma and tuberculosis. His health deteriorated rapidly in his final years, and he passed away in 1925 at the age of 34. Despite his short life, Robert St Leger Fowler left behind a rich legacy, inspiring generations of Irish writers, artists, and activists.

In addition to his literary and artistic pursuits, Robert St Leger Fowler was also a talented athlete. He was a member of Ireland's national rugby team and played in several international matches. He was also a skilled cricketer and played for the Dublin University cricket team while studying at Trinity College. Despite his sporting achievements, Fowler's true passions lay in writing and activism, and he devoted much of his time and energy to expressing his political views and promoting Irish culture and independence. He was a complex and multifaceted figure, whose talent and legacy continue to inspire and captivate readers and scholars alike.

In addition to his other accomplishments, Robert St Leger Fowler was also a skilled linguist. He was fluent in several languages, including French, German, Italian, and Spanish, and often used his language skills to communicate with fellow writers and activists from other countries. He was known for his love of literature from around the world, and his writing was often influenced by his reading of works in translation. Fowler's interest in languages also led him to study linguistics, and he was an early proponent of the study of language as it relates to cultural identity and nationalism. His contributions to the field of linguistics were significant, and he is remembered as one of the pioneers of modern linguistic theory.

Phil 'The Gunner' Brady

Phil 'The Gunner' Brady was an Irish personality.

Phil 'The Gunner' Brady was an Irish personality who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s as a disc jockey and television presenter. He was born in Dublin in 1934 and began his career in radio as a technician. He eventually moved on to becoming a DJ on the pirate radio station Radio Caroline in the 1960s.

In the 1970s, Brady became a popular television presenter, hosting the Irish music show 'The Phil Brady Show' on RTE. He was renowned for his distinctive voice and his quirky catchphrases.

Brady was also a skilled singer and guitarist, and he released several albums throughout his career. In addition, he was heavily involved in charity work and was a prominent member of the Dublin Lions Club.

Brady passed away in 2018 at the age of 83, but he was a beloved figure in Irish entertainment and is remembered as one of the country's most iconic personalities.

During his time as a radio host, Phil 'The Gunner' Brady was known for his rebellious attitude and his love of rock and roll music. He was one of the few DJs who would play records by artists such as Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones, who were considered controversial at the time. This earned him a loyal fanbase among young people who were passionate about music.

In addition to his work in radio and television, Brady also had a successful career in the music industry. He released several singles and albums, including the hit song "The World We Knew" in 1967, which reached #9 on the Irish charts. He was also a skilled guitarist and played with several well-known Irish bands throughout his career.

Brady was known for his philanthropy and his dedication to giving back to his community. He was actively involved in the Dublin Lions Club, a charity organization dedicated to helping people in need. He organized several fundraising events over the years and was widely respected for his dedication to the cause.

Throughout his career, Phil 'The Gunner' Brady remained a beloved figure in Irish entertainment. He was known for his infectious personality, his love of music, and his commitment to helping others. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his fans and the many people he touched during his life.

Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Phil 'The Gunner' Brady remained humble and never forgot his roots. He grew up in a working-class family in Dublin and was one of thirteen children. He often spoke about his difficult upbringing and the importance of hard work and perseverance.Brady was also a mentor to many young people who wanted to break into the entertainment industry. He was known for his generosity and willingness to help others, and he was always happy to share his knowledge and experience with aspiring performers.Despite battling a number of health problems in his later years, Brady remained active in his community and continued to support charitable causes. He passed away in August 2018, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, and entertainment.

In addition to his work in the entertainment industry and philanthropy, Phil 'The Gunner' Brady was also involved in politics. He ran for office twice, first in a local election in 1974 and then in the Irish general election in 1977. Although he did not win either election, he remained interested in politics and supported causes that aligned with his values.Brady was also a family man who was married to his wife Eileen for over 50 years. Together they had five children and many grandchildren. He was a devoted husband and father who always made time for his family, even during the height of his career.Brady's impact on Irish entertainment and culture can still be felt today, and he continues to be remembered fondly by his fans and colleagues. His unique personality, engaging voice, and dedication to his community made him an unforgettable figure in Irish history.

In recognition of his contributions to Irish entertainment, Phil 'The Gunner' Brady was honored with several awards throughout his career. In 2007, he was inducted into the PPI Radio Awards Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding work in radio broadcasting. He was also awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Meteor Ireland Music Awards in 2008 for his contributions to Irish music.As an advocate for philanthropy and charity work, Brady's legacy lives on through the many organizations he supported. The Dublin Lions Club continues to provide assistance to those in need in his memory, and the Phil Brady Memorial Trust was established in his honor to support charitable causes in his community.Brady's impact on Irish entertainment continues to inspire new generations of performers and personalities. Through his dedication to his craft and his community, he remains a beloved figure in Irish history and an inspiration to many.

Arthur O'Sullivan

Arthur O'Sullivan (April 5, 2015 Republic of Ireland-February 17, 1981 Dublin) otherwise known as Archie O'Sullivan or Arthur 'Archie' O'Sullivan was an Irish actor.

O'Sullivan began his career in acting in the 1940s, appearing in various stage productions in Dublin. He later moved to London, where he appeared in numerous films and television shows. Some of his most notable roles include appearances in the films "The Quiet Man" (1952) and "Darby O'Gill and the Little People" (1959).

O'Sullivan was also a talented scriptwriter, and wrote several plays and screenplays throughout his career. He was a member of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin and worked as a drama critic for various newspapers.

In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, O'Sullivan was also an accomplished athlete. He was a member of the Irish national rugby team and won several awards for his athleticism.

O'Sullivan passed away in 1981 at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most beloved actors and performers.

Throughout his career, O'Sullivan was known for his versatility as an actor, playing a range of characters from comedic to dramatic. He often portrayed Irish stereotypes in his earlier films but later on, he challenged those stereotypes by taking on more complex roles. He received critical acclaim for his work in the film "Rocky Road to Dublin" (1968), which he co-wrote and starred in. The film was a documentary-style look at the poverty and social issues in Dublin at the time.

O'Sullivan was also a dedicated supporter of the Irish language and culture. He worked as a teacher of Irish language and literature and was involved in the establishment of the Gaelic Players Association, which promoted Irish culture through sports and the arts.

Despite his success and recognition, O'Sullivan remained humble and grounded, never losing touch with his Irish roots. He continued to work in the entertainment industry until his death, leaving behind a rich legacy and inspiring future generations of Irish actors and performers.

Throughout his career, O'Sullivan was known not only for his versatile acting skills but also for his deep commitment to Irish culture and politics. He was a staunch nationalist and used his platform to support Irish independence and promote the Irish language. O'Sullivan was a member of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and was arrested several times for his involvement in political activities.

In addition to his activism, O'Sullivan was a writer and published several books on Irish culture and history. He also wrote a memoir titled "Confessions of an Actor" which chronicles his life and career in the entertainment industry.

Despite his sometimes controversial political views, O'Sullivan was widely respected and admired by colleagues and fans alike for his talent, dedication, and passion. He is remembered as an icon of Irish culture and an inspiration to generations of Irish artists and activists.

O'Sullivan's impact on Irish culture extended beyond his work on stage and screen. He was also an advocate for the preservation of Ireland's historic buildings and landmarks. In the 1960s, he successfully campaigned to prevent the demolition of the historic canals in Dublin's docklands, and worked with other activists to preserve sites like the old city walls and St. Michan's Church.

Later in his career, O'Sullivan also became involved in politics, running unsuccessfully for a seat in the Irish parliament in the early 1970s. He remained a vocal advocate for Irish independence and a united Ireland throughout his life.

Despite his active involvement in political issues, O'Sullivan remained committed to his craft as an actor and continued to work until his death. His performances were marked by a deep sense of authenticity and a commitment to bringing to life the stories and characters of Ireland's rich cultural history. He was truly one of Ireland's greatest ambassadors and remains an inspiration to artists and activists alike.

In addition to his accomplishments as an actor, writer, and activist, O'Sullivan was also a devoted family man. He was married to actress Eileen Crowe, with whom he had four children. His daughter Mary became an accomplished actress in her own right, following in her father's footsteps.

O'Sullivan's legacy continues to be celebrated in Ireland, where he is remembered as a cultural icon and national treasure. His performances paved the way for future generations of Irish actors, and his activism served as a reminder of the importance of preserving Ireland's unique cultural heritage.

Today, O'Sullivan's work continues to be celebrated through revival screenings of his films, re-stagings of his plays, and the ongoing preservation of the historic sites and landmarks he worked to protect. He remains an inspiration to generations of Irish artists, activists, and patriots, and his impact on Irish culture and history will continue to be felt for years to come.

Read more about Arthur O'Sullivan on Wikipedia »

John Fegan

John Fegan (April 5, 2015 Belfast-April 5, 1981) also known as John 'Jack' Fegan or Jack Fegan was an Irish actor and soldier.

He began his career as an actor in Dublin's Abbey Theatre and later went on to perform in London's West End. In the 1940s, Fegan joined the British Army and served during World War II before joining the SAS (Special Air Service) as a lieutenant. He was later captured by the Germans in Italy and held as a prisoner of war. After the war, Fegan returned to acting and appeared in numerous films and TV series, including "The Longest Day" and "The Avengers." He was also a founding member of the Irish Actors' Equity Association. Fegan passed away on his 66th birthday in 1981.

Throughout his career, Fegan was well-known for his versatility as an actor and his skill as a linguist. In addition to English, he was fluent in French, Italian, and German, which he learned during his time as a prisoner of war. Fegan's military experiences greatly influenced his acting style and he was often cast in roles that reflected his wartime service. He was also an accomplished stage actor and performed in a number of productions on Broadway. Fegan was recognized with a number of awards for his contributions to the arts, including an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 1976. He is remembered as a talented actor and a hero of the Second World War.

Fegan was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland and was the eldest of seven children. His father was a businessman and his mother was a homemaker. Fegan's interest in acting started early on and he joined a local drama group when he was just a teenager. After completing his education at St. Mary's Christian Brothers' Grammar School, he moved to Dublin to pursue a career in acting.

Fegan's early years in the Abbey Theatre were formative, and he quickly gained a reputation for his talent and dedication. His breakthrough role came in 1937 when he was cast in Sean O'Casey's "The Plough and the Stars," which received critical acclaim. Fegan continued to work in Dublin for several years before making his way to London's West End, where he performed in a number of productions.

Fegan's time in the British Army was also significant, as it allowed him to hone his skills as a soldier and a linguist. He was recruited into the SAS in 1942 and saw action in North Africa and Italy. It was during his time as a POW in Italy that he learned Italian, French and German. After his capture, Fegan was able to escape and eventually made his way back to Allied lines.

Fegan's acting career continued to flourish after the war, and he appeared in a number of notable films and TV shows. His versatility was evident in the range of roles he played, from dramatic to comedic, and his performances earned him a dedicated following. He was also a mentor to many young actors, and his advice and guidance helped launch their careers.

Fegan's legacy lives on in the many films, TV shows, and stage productions he worked on throughout his career, as well as in the memories of those who knew him. His contributions to the arts, as well as his bravery during the Second World War, continue to be celebrated today.

In addition to his work on stage and screen, Fegan was also a talented writer and published several plays throughout his career. He had a deep passion for the arts and was involved in various arts organizations, including the Royal Society of Arts and the Society of Authors. Fegan was known for his wit and charm, and his engaging personality made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. He was married to actress and comedian Betty Jumel, and they had two children together. Fegan's legacy as both an actor and soldier is a testament to his dedication and determination in all aspects of life.

One of Fegan's most iconic roles on stage was in the play "Juno and the Paycock" by Sean O'Casey, which he performed in both Dublin and London. He also starred in the play "The Plough and the Stars" in London's West End in 1938, which was a critical success. Fegan was known for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his performances, often drawing from his own experiences in the military.

Fegan was also involved in activism and served as a member of the Dublin Housing Action Committee. He was passionate about improving the living conditions of low-income families in Ireland and worked to raise awareness about their struggles.

Despite facing health challenges in his later years, Fegan remained active in the arts community and continued to work on stage and screen. He passed away on his 66th birthday in 1981, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most beloved actors and a hero of the Second World War.

Read more about John Fegan on Wikipedia »

Edmund De Wind

Edmund De Wind (December 11, 1883 Comber-March 21, 1918 Thiepval) was an Irish soldier.

Edmund De Wind was a highly decorated British officer who fought during World War I. He was born in Comber, County Down, Ireland, and was educated at the prestigious Rugby School in England. De Wind joined the British Army in 1904 and served in India, Sudan, and Egypt before being sent to the Western Front in France in 1914.

During his time in France, De Wind quickly established himself as a fearless and highly effective soldier, and he was promoted to the rank of captain in the Royal Irish Rifles. In June 1917, during the Battle of Messines, he led his men in a daring attack against German trenches, for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross - the highest military honour in the British Empire.

Despite the great bravery he had shown in battle, De Wind's life was tragically cut short in March 1918 during the German Spring Offensive. He was killed in action near Thiepval in northern France, just a few months before the end of the war. De Wind's body was never found, and his name is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme.

Before his deployment to France in 1914, Edmund De Wind was appointed as an instructor at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, where he trained future officers. He was known for his devotion to duty and discipline, which he instilled in his students. In addition to the Victoria Cross, De Wind was also awarded the Distinguished Service Order and Military Cross.

Edmund De Wind was not the only member of his family to serve in the British Army. His brother, Francis De Wind, was also a highly decorated soldier who fought in World War I. Francis was awarded the Military Cross for his service in Palestine in 1917.

Despite his short life, Edmund De Wind's bravery and dedication to his country continue to be remembered today. In addition to being commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, he has been the subject of several biographies, and his Victoria Cross is on display at the Imperial War Museum in London.

After his death, Edmund De Wind's family established the Edmund De Wind Memorial Fund to honour his memory and legacy. The fund provided financial assistance to young men from the Comber area who wished to pursue a career in the armed forces. The fund continued to operate until the outbreak of World War II, when it was put on hold due to the conflict.

In recent years, there have been efforts to recognize Edmund De Wind's contribution to the British Army and his bravery in battle. In 2017, a campaign was launched to have a statue of De Wind erected in his hometown of Comber. The campaign was successful, and the statue was unveiled in December 2019 to mark the 136th anniversary of his birth.

Edmund De Wind's legacy continues to inspire those who admire his courage and dedication to his country. His story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by thousands of soldiers during World War I and serves as an inspiration to future generations.

In addition to his military accomplishments, Edmund De Wind was also a keen sportsman. He was an accomplished rugby player and played for the Royal Irish Rifles rugby team. He also excelled at boxing and represented the Army in various competitions. De Wind was known for his athleticism and stamina, which helped him to be a formidable soldier on the battlefield.

After his death, De Wind's family received many letters from soldiers who had served with him, praising his leadership and bravery. One soldier wrote, "You will never know what a great loss he is to the Regiment but he has died the death of a soldier and one that every man should be proud of." De Wind's sacrifice and heroism continue to be honored by his family and the military, and his story serves as a testament to the bravery and selflessness of those who served in World War I.

In addition to his military and athletic accomplishments, Edmund De Wind also had a passion for languages. He was fluent in French, German, and Arabic, which proved to be useful skills during his service in Egypt and Palestine. De Wind's linguistic abilities also earned him a position as a translator for General Douglas Haig during the Battle of Messines, where he would go on to earn his Victoria Cross for his leadership and bravery.

After his death, De Wind's family received a letter from the King of England expressing his condolences and admiration for the fallen soldier. The letter read, "I am deeply grieved to hear that your gallant son has been killed in action. His Majesty has learned with admiration and respect of the splendid gallantry and devotion to duty which prompted him to lead his men in a charge against strong enemy positions, which had been stubbornly holding up our advance."

Edmund De Wind's life and legacy continue to be honored today, and his sacrifice serves as a reminder to never forget the courage and dedication of those who fought and died for their country.

He died as a result of killed in action.

Read more about Edmund De Wind on Wikipedia »