Westlife have confirmed plans for new music and live shows to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their first world tour. The band—comprising Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, and Mark Feehily—shared the news in a statement on X, but also revealed that Feehily will not be part of the upcoming celebrations due to ongoing health issues.
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our 25th Anniversary celebrations,” the statement read. “On the 9th February 2001 we kicked off our first ever world tour at the Newcastle Arena. Who would have thought we would still be here 25 years later? We have so many exciting plans to share with you very soon which will include new music, an album, special shows and many, many more surprises along the way.”
The band added: “Sadly, Mark will be unable to join the celebrations. We hope we can join us back on stage when he is ready and able. He sends his love and positivity to you all as always.” Feehily stepped back from the band in February 2024 during their Wild Dreams world tour due to “ongoing medical problems.” He previously detailed that his health challenges began in August 2020 after surgery led to severe sepsis, pneumonia, and an incisional hernia requiring further surgery.
Feehily said at the time: “It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time that I have had a chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.” The band’s anniversary plans include new music, an album, and special shows, with further details to be announced.
