Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip Dies at 53

© Paul Mckinnon | Dreamstime
Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip’s lead singer Gord Downie died on Tuesday, October 17 with his family nearby.
The following day, Downie’s family shared a heartfelt message for fans on Facebook. Read the full statement below.
According to Entertainment Weekly, Downie was diagnosed with brain cancer in late 2015; however, the band didn’t publicize the information until May 2016. Despite his diagnosis, The Tragically Hip—Downie included—went on one final tour this year.
Downie was a beloved musician, especially in his home country of Canada. As such, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau penned a message to the singer after his final concert with the band this past August.
On behalf of Canadians, I thank Gord Downie and the Hip for their decades of service to Canadian music. Forever in our hearts and playlists.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 21, 2016
You can read Trudeau’s statement following Downie’s death here.
The singer was 53 years old.