Danny O’Donoghue, the lead singer of The Script, recently shared his journey of coping with grief after the loss of his bandmate and close friend, Mark Sheehan. Since Mark’s passing last year, Danny has made significant lifestyle changes, including giving up alcohol and turning to religion for solace.
In a candid interview on RTE’s Brendan O’Connor Show, Danny expressed how deeply Mark’s death affected him, revealing that he struggled to write songs without his longtime collaborator by his side. The duo had formed The Script together in 2001, and Mark’s sudden death left Danny and drummer Glen Power contemplating the future of the band.
Despite facing moments of uncertainty and questioning, Danny decided to make a fresh start by abstaining from alcohol, smoking, and caffeine. He emphasized the importance of his daily routine, which includes attending Catholic Mass every morning to practice gratitude and offer prayers for the life he has lived so far.
While Danny admitted that he is not the most devout believer, he finds solace in the structure and practice of attending church daily. His commitment to this routine, along with regular workouts at the gym and time spent in the studio making music, has helped him navigate his grief and find a sense of peace amidst the pain.
Reflecting on his journey, Danny shared that he hasn’t touched a drink in six months and feels better than ever, despite the challenging circumstances. He highlighted the positive impact of his daily church visits and expressed gratitude for the support and comfort he has found in this new routine.
As Danny continues to honor Mark’s memory and navigate life without his dear friend, he remains committed to his faith and the practices that bring him solace and strength. Through his openness and vulnerability, he serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of finding healthy outlets for grief and healing.