New Virgin Radio presenter Ryan Tubridy shares tribute to Shane MacGowan

Virgin Radio

1 Dec 2023, 14:07

Irish broadcaster Ryan Tubridy has paid tribute to Shane MacGowan, following his death at the age of 65.

Virgin Radio’s Ryan took to his personal Instagram page to say some words about his countryman, whose death was confirmed yesterday (30th November). 

Shane, who was born on Christmas Day in 1957, was frontman for The Pogues and The Popes, and also collaborated with artists such as Joe Strummer, Nick Cave, Steve Earle, Ronnie Drew and Sinéad O'Connor.

“What a sad day that is today, to see Shane MacGowan head off to his eternal reward, as they say,” Ryan said.

Describing him as a “fascinating figure” and talking about how “he had plenty to say and he said it”, the presenter revealed that MacGowan was a “fan of Trivial Pursuit, did you know that?” 

He added: “And a great companion, of course, to Victoria Mary Clarke, who I’m really thinking of most today, as well as Shane’s extended family.”

Speaking about the death of other Irish musicians this year, Ryan continued: “When you think of that tragic trilogy of passing this year, Sinead O’Connor of course, Christy Dignam and now Shane MacGowan, the country has lost intrinsically important artists and part of the fabric of who we are. But I will say one thing, heaven, or wherever they are, just got a hell of a lot more interesting. 

“May you rest in peace.”

Shane MacGowan suffered numerous health issues over the years, and was diagnosed with encephalitis in December 2022. He'd recently returned home from hospital after a long stay in intensive care.

The music world has also been paying tribute to the late singer-songwriter. Read them here.

Ryan Tubridy will host the mid-morning show on Virgin Radio UK - 10am - 1pm, Monday to Friday - from January 2024.