Children of Bodom guitarist and singer Alexi Laiho has passed away aged 41, his bandmates have confirmed in a statement.
The Bodom After Midnight band wrote: “Statement from Bodom After Midnight:
“It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho. We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken for the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member.
“Daniel, Mitja & Waltteri.”
His sister also shared a tribute to her brother, saying: “We are all absolutely shocked and devastated. We ask for privacy and understanding during these hard times. My little brother’s funeral will take place privately.”
Alexi Laiho has died at the age of 41, his band mates have confirmed (Image: Getty Images)
Alexi’s family in Australia also shared a statement, writing: “Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.”
“Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken”
A cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Alexi joined the Finnish death metal band Children of Bodom back in 1993, with the group becoming one of the country’s best-selling groups of all time.
The Children of Bodom legend was considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time (Image: LightRocket via Getty Images)
They released ten studio albums and two live albums, scoring charting positions on the Billboard 200 in America before splitting in 2019.
Alexi and bandmate Daniel Freyburg continued as Bodom After Midnight in 2020.
A statement was released on his official Facebook page which said that Alexi had “suffered from long-term mental health issues during his last years”.
The statement also said that Alexi “relished his roles” as stepdad in his “patchwork” family, as well as being an uncle and godfather.
It added: “Especially during the last years, the important family ties brought a welcomed balance to his life and the active touring.”
Alexi also played guitar for a number of bands, including Sinergy, The Local Band, Thy Serpent and Impaled Nazarene.
The rocker was ranked in the top 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time by Guitar World in 2011.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
