Westlife fans have been left puzzled after noticing an unexpected lack of public support from the band following Mark Feehily’s return to social media. The singer, who has been absent from the group’s 25th anniversary tour due to ongoing health issues, recently shared a rare personal update online. While his message was warmly received by fans, the silence from his bandmates sparked speculation and online debate about the dynamics within the group.
Mark’s post marked his first social media activity in nearly a year, as he revealed he would be returning to work as a radio presenter on Ireland’s RTÉ Radio One. In his message, he apologised for stepping away from the spotlight and openly discussed his disappointment at not being able to join Westlife on their milestone tour. Despite this, he sent heartfelt words of encouragement and love to his bandmates—Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Nicky Byrne—as they continued performing around the world.
What caught fans’ attention, however, was the absence of public comments from the other Westlife members on the post. The only visible response came from Kian Egan’s wife, Jodi Albert, who shared supportive emojis. This led some followers to question whether there was tension behind the scenes, though others were quick to point out that online silence does not necessarily reflect real-life relationships.
Mark has been candid about the serious health challenges that forced him to step back from touring. After suffering sepsis following surgery in 2020, he spent months in intensive care. Further complications followed, including pneumonia in 2021 and multiple major surgeries since then. In his update, he explained that while hosting a radio show is manageable, the physical and mental demands of a global tour remain too much for him at this stage of his recovery.
Despite his continued absence from the stage, hope remains among fans that Mark will eventually reunite with Westlife when his health allows. Formed in 1998, the group became one of pop music’s most successful acts, earning 14 UK number-one singles and selling over 55 million records worldwide. While Westlife currently perform without Mark, his message made it clear that he remains deeply connected to the band’s legacy—and determined to return in his own time, when both his body and mind are ready.
