Michael Lee Aday, better known as Meat Loaf, has passed away aged 74.
The iconic actor and singer passed away on Thursday night, January 20, with his wife Deborah by his side.
News of his death was confirmed with a statement posted on Facebook which described Meat Loaf as ‘incomparable’ and assured he had his daughters, Pearl and Amanda, and close friends by his side throughout his final hours. A cause of death has not been released.
The announcement went on to pay tribute to Meat Loaf’s career, which spanned six decades and saw him ‘star in over 65 movies, including Fight Club, Focus, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Wayne’s World.’
It continued:
Bat Out of Hell remains one of the top 10 selling albums of all time.
We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man.
We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls…don’t ever stop rocking!
Meat Loaf’s iconic Bat Out Of Hell trilogy became one of the best-selling albums in history following its release in 1977, and many social media users have shared praise and memories about its release following the news of the singer’s death.
One fan wrote: ‘Bat out of Hell. I bought the album with my first paycheck. Still love it 40 odd yrs later. Rest in peace Meatloaf [sic].’
Another commented: ‘RIP Meatloaf [sic]. One of the best Rocking in heaven now. Like a bat out of hell!!!!!’
Meat Loaf had two singles, Two of Three Ain’t Bad and Paradise by the Dashboard Light, certified platinum in 2018, more than four decades after the release of Bat Out of Hell.
He secured another platinum single with the release of the 1993 album Bat Out of Hell II: Back Into Hell, after which I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) spent five weeks at No. 1 and became the singer’s biggest hit.
Before releasing the now-iconic album, Meat Loaf was known for his appearance in the 1975 film version of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, where he starred as ex-delivery boy Eddie. The movie went on to become a cult classic, and Meat Loaf continued to star in the role of Eddie in the stage show.
Our thoughts are with the singer’s friends and family. Rest in peace.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
