In a heartening turn for Westlife fans around the world, the Irish pop supergroup has emphatically reassured supporters that Mark Feehily remains “still very much part of the band” — and he’s featured on their new music, even amid his ongoing health-related break. The announcement comes at a poignant moment in the band’s journey, as they celebrate their 25th anniversary with fresh songs, an upcoming album, and special shows, while also navigating personal and collective challenges.
Mark Feehily’s Health Journey: A Difficult But Determined Pause
Mark Feehily’s absence from touring has weighed heavily on fans, but it is grounded in very serious health concerns. In February 2024, Mark made the difficult decision to temporarily step back from all Westlife touring, citing “ongoing medical problems” that began after surgical complications. (Hotpress)
His health battles are not new: he previously endured a life-threatening bout of sepsis following surgery in August 2020, spent time in intensive care, and later developed a large “incisional hernia” which required yet another procedure. (Music Times) According to his own account, that hernia surgery was his fourth major operation since 2020. (Hotpress)
Doctors have advised him to take time off from the physical and logistical demands of touring — long flights, back-to-back performances, and constant travel proved too taxing on his recovery. (Hotpress)
The 25th Anniversary: Ambitious Plans — and a Bittersweet Reality
In June 2025, Westlife announced expansive 25th anniversary plans that included new music, a special album, and celebratory shows. (BANG Premier) However, their statement was tinged with sadness: Mark will not be joining the anniversary touring activities “at this time.” (BANG Premier)
Still, the band’s commitment to their longtime member remains strong. According to reports, the three touring members — Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan — have spoken openly about how much they miss Mark during live shows. (Pink News) Shane, in particular, used a concert as a moment to address the audience about him:
“We love him, we miss him … the good news is he’s obviously on the new music.” (Yahoo News UK)
This acknowledgment has gone a long way to soothe the fears of many fans who worried that Mark’s absence from the stage might signal something more permanent.
On the New Record: Mark’s Voice Is Still There
Perhaps the most uplifting confirmation for fans is that Mark’s vocals are present on the band’s upcoming music. According to The PinkNews and other outlets, Mark appears on “Chariot”, one of the new singles, and is expected to feature in even more songs on the forthcoming album. (Pink News)
This is more than a symbolic affirmation — it’s a real, tangible musical presence. In interviews, Westlife have made it clear: despite his absence on stage, Mark participated in the creative process, lending his voice and emotional depth to their new material. (Pink News)
What This Means for Fans — and for Westlife
1. Reassurance for the Fan Community
For Westlife devotees, Mark’s confirmation on the new music is a massive relief. His absence from touring had sparked concern, speculation, and emotional reactions. Knowing that he’s still part of the band musically helps fans feel connected, even if he’s not physically present on stage.
2. A Sensitive Balance of Health and Legacy
Mark’s decision to prioritize recovery shows maturity and self-care, but also underscores how seriously Westlife treats their legacy. Rather than pressuring him to return, the band is honoring his needs while still integrating him creatively.
3. The Band’s Longevity
Mark’s inclusion in the anniversary album proves that Westlife’s 25-year celebration isn’t just a nostalgia act — it’s a forward-looking project. Even absent from touring, Mark helps anchor the group’s sound, reminding everyone that Westlife isn’t just the three-member lineup on stage, but a legacy that includes all its founding voices.
4. Hope for the Future
Because Mark is involved in the new recordings, there is hope among fans that once he’s fully recovered, he may rejoin future performances. While nothing is certain, this musical involvement suggests that his pause is not a farewell.
A Message of Support and Optimism
In a world of breakups and band fatigue, Westlife’s handling of Mark Feehily’s health crisis and their 25th anniversary feels deeply human. They aren’t hiding or minimizing his struggles. Instead, they’re speaking openly, celebrating their past, and adapting to the present — all while honoring every member’s role.
Fans have rallied around this message. On Reddit and other fan forums, supporters echoed relief and joy that Mark is still part of the creative core:
“We will hear Mark in the new music/album guys!” (Reddit)
“He’s still a part of Westlife definitely!” (Reddit)
Moreover, during live shows, the remaining members have made a point to publicly dedicate moments and songs to him — reinforcing that his spirit, voice, and legacy remain woven into the fabric of Westlife. (Pink News)
Looking Ahead
- Album Release: The band’s upcoming album, 25 – The Ultimate Collection, promises not just greatest hits, but fresh contributions — including Mark’s vocals. (Reuters)
- Touring: While Mark is not participating in the anniversary shows, Westlife’s 2026 tour is planned to be expansive, and fans continue to hope he may return in future legs. (BANG Premier)
- Mark’s Recovery: His break remains “temporary,” per his earlier statements. (Hotpress) Observers and supporters alike are watching closely, sending positive thoughts, and anticipating his return.
Final Thoughts
Westlife’s confirmation that Mark Feehily remains part of the band — and his inclusion on their new music — is a deeply powerful message: health comes first, but loyalty endures. For a group that has spanned decades, such moments of vulnerability and solidarity resonate not just with longtime fans, but with anyone who values perseverance and connection.
Even amidst personal struggles, Westlife is reminding the world that their bond is more than just a stage presence. It’s creative, emotional, and rooted in respect.
As fans listen to Chariot and await more new tracks, they’ll not just hear a voice they love — they’ll hear a story of survival, friendship, and the enduring power of song.
If you like, I can write this as a news-style piece (shorter, with quotes and subheads) or a feature article for a fan magazine — which would you prefer?
In a heartening turn for Westlife fans around the world, the Irish pop supergroup has emphatically reassured supporters that Mark Feehily remains “still very much part of the band” — and he’s featured on their new music, even amid his ongoing health-related break. The announcement comes at a poignant moment in the band’s journey, as they celebrate their 25th anniversary with fresh songs, an upcoming album, and special shows, while also navigating personal and collective challenges.
Mark Feehily’s Health Journey: A Difficult But Determined Pause
Mark Feehily’s absence from touring has weighed heavily on fans, but it is grounded in very serious health concerns. In February 2024, Mark made the difficult decision to temporarily step back from all Westlife touring, citing “ongoing medical problems” that began after surgical complications. (Hotpress)
His health battles are not new: he previously endured a life-threatening bout of sepsis following surgery in August 2020, spent time in intensive care, and later developed a large “incisional hernia” which required yet another procedure. (Music Times) According to his own account, that hernia surgery was his fourth major operation since 2020. (Hotpress)
Doctors have advised him to take time off from the physical and logistical demands of touring — long flights, back-to-back performances, and constant travel proved too taxing on his recovery. (Hotpress)
The 25th Anniversary: Ambitious Plans — and a Bittersweet Reality
In June 2025, Westlife announced expansive 25th anniversary plans that included new music, a special album, and celebratory shows. (BANG Premier) However, their statement was tinged with sadness: Mark will not be joining the anniversary touring activities “at this time.” (BANG Premier)
Still, the band’s commitment to their longtime member remains strong. According to reports, the three touring members — Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan — have spoken openly about how much they miss Mark during live shows. (Pink News) Shane, in particular, used a concert as a moment to address the audience about him:
“We love him, we miss him … the good news is he’s obviously on the new music.” (Yahoo News UK)
This acknowledgment has gone a long way to soothe the fears of many fans who worried that Mark’s absence from the stage might signal something more permanent.
On the New Record: Mark’s Voice Is Still There
Perhaps the most uplifting confirmation for fans is that Mark’s vocals are present on the band’s upcoming music. According to The PinkNews and other outlets, Mark appears on “Chariot”, one of the new singles, and is expected to feature in even more songs on the forthcoming album. (Pink News)
This is more than a symbolic affirmation — it’s a real, tangible musical presence. In interviews, Westlife have made it clear: despite his absence on stage, Mark participated in the creative process, lending his voice and emotional depth to their new material. (Pink News)
What This Means for Fans — and for Westlife
1. Reassurance for the Fan Community
For Westlife devotees, Mark’s confirmation on the new music is a massive relief. His absence from touring had sparked concern, speculation, and emotional reactions. Knowing that he’s still part of the band musically helps fans feel connected, even if he’s not physically present on stage.
2. A Sensitive Balance of Health and Legacy
Mark’s decision to prioritize recovery shows maturity and self-care, but also underscores how seriously Westlife treats their legacy. Rather than pressuring him to return, the band is honoring his needs while still integrating him creatively.
3. The Band’s Longevity
Mark’s inclusion in the anniversary album proves that Westlife’s 25-year celebration isn’t just a nostalgia act — it’s a forward-looking project. Even absent from touring, Mark helps anchor the group’s sound, reminding everyone that Westlife isn’t just the three-member lineup on stage, but a legacy that includes all its founding voices.
4. Hope for the Future
Because Mark is involved in the new recordings, there is hope among fans that once he’s fully recovered, he may rejoin future performances. While nothing is certain, this musical involvement suggests that his pause is not a farewell.
A Message of Support and Optimism
In a world of breakups and band fatigue, Westlife’s handling of Mark Feehily’s health crisis and their 25th anniversary feels deeply human. They aren’t hiding or minimizing his struggles. Instead, they’re speaking openly, celebrating their past, and adapting to the present — all while honoring every member’s role.
Fans have rallied around this message. On Reddit and other fan forums, supporters echoed relief and joy that Mark is still part of the creative core:
“We will hear Mark in the new music/album guys!” (Reddit)
“He’s still a part of Westlife definitely!” (Reddit)
Moreover, during live shows, the remaining members have made a point to publicly dedicate moments and songs to him — reinforcing that his spirit, voice, and legacy remain woven into the fabric of Westlife. (Pink News)
Looking Ahead
- Album Release: The band’s upcoming album, 25 – The Ultimate Collection, promises not just greatest hits, but fresh contributions — including Mark’s vocals. (Reuters)
- Touring: While Mark is not participating in the anniversary shows, Westlife’s 2026 tour is planned to be expansive, and fans continue to hope he may return in future legs. (BANG Premier)
- Mark’s Recovery: His break remains “temporary,” per his earlier statements. (Hotpress) Observers and supporters alike are watching closely, sending positive thoughts, and anticipating his return.
Final Thoughts
Westlife’s confirmation that Mark Feehily remains part of the band — and his inclusion on their new music — is a deeply powerful message: health comes first, but loyalty endures. For a group that has spanned decades, such moments of vulnerability and solidarity resonate not just with longtime fans, but with anyone who values perseverance and connection.
Even amidst personal struggles, Westlife is reminding the world that their bond is more than just a stage presence. It’s creative, emotional, and rooted in respect.
As fans listen to Chariot and await more new tracks, they’ll not just hear a voice they love — they’ll hear a story of survival, friendship, and the enduring power of song.
If you like, I can write this as a news-style piece (shorter, with quotes and subheads) or a feature article for a fan magazine — which would you prefer?
