The cause of death for Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor has been confirmed a year after her death.
The Irish Independent reported that O’Connor died of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchial asthma, which were exacerbated by a low-grade lower respiratory tract infection.
This revelation comes six months after the London Inner South Coroner’s Court ruled her death as “natural causes.” O’Connor, who rose to international stardom in 1990 with her performance of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” died on July 26, 2023, at the age of 56.
On the day she died, the singer was discovered “unresponsive” in a London house. Her family expressed their sorrow in a statement to the BBC and RTE, stating, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad.” Her family and friends are saddened and have requested privacy during this extremely difficult time.
Initially, the Coroner Court’s website reported that “no medical cause of death was given,” but a Scotland Yard representative stated that her death was “not being treated as suspicious.” Later, the London Inner South Coroner’s Court confirmed her death as natural and ended its involvement in the matter.
In honor of O’Connor, the director of her documentary Nothing Compares announced that the film would be free to watch for a week on La Cinéma Club.
Filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson revealed on Instagram that there has been a surge in global interest in the documentary since its publication in 2022.
She stated, “Many people have called out from all around the world, wondering how they can view it. This includes many people who may not have access to streaming platforms or live in areas where the film is unavailable.”
Ferguson added, “Now, everyone can watch it and honor Sinéad’s extraordinary talent and her unwavering commitment to standing up for the oppressed.”
O’Connor is survived by her three children. Tragically, her son Shane died by suicide in 2022 at the age of 17.
In the weeks before her death, O’Connor posted a more positive message on Facebook.
“Hi All, recently moved back to London after 23 years absence. Very happy to be home : ) Soon finishing my album. Release early next year : ). Hopefully Touring Australia and New Zealand toward end 2024. Europe, USA and other territories beginning early 2025 : ) #TheBitchIsBack.” she wrote on July 11.
Related: Robert Downey Jr’s Marvel Return As Doctor Doom
