A Silent Threat: Acute Pulmonary Edema

Stephen Gately’s official cause of death was acute pulmonary edema, a condition in which fluid rapidly accumulates in the lungs due to an undiagnosed heart condition known as atheromatosis. This thickening of the arteries restricted blood flow and ultimately led to sudden cardiac failure while he slept on a sofa in his Majorca holiday home, cradled by his partner, Andrew Cowles.

Medical experts ruled out drugs, alcohol, or external factors, confirming that Stephen’s death was entirely natural. His family later revealed that heart disease ran in their bloodline, with a history of cardiac issues on his father’s side.

A Family’s Genetic Risk

Stephen’s mother, Margaret Gately, immediately suspected heart disease upon hearing of his death. “I knew it was his heart,” she said, recalling how several relatives on his father’s side had also passed away from cardiac conditions. The tragedy prompted the Gately family to undergo medical evaluations, underscoring the importance of genetic awareness in heart health.

His Final Hours: A Peaceful Passing

On October 9, 2009, Stephen spent his evening dining with Andrew before visiting Palma’s Black Cat club. They later returned home with model Georgi Dochev, whom they had met that night. Stephen fell asleep on the sofa and never woke up.

Andrew later shared, “He died under my arm… his heart stopped, and he felt no pain.” The next morning, Georgi discovered Stephen unresponsive. Despite desperate attempts to revive him, including Andrew’s frantic CPR, the singer was pronounced dead hours later.

Questions and Controversy

In 2014, Stephen’s brother Tony called for a reinvestigation, questioning inconsistencies in the accounts of that night. Andrew Cowles dismissed the claims as “groundless,” stating that they only prolonged the family’s grief. Coroners reaffirmed their original conclusion: Stephen’s death was an unavoidable consequence of his congenital heart condition.

A Lasting Legacy

Stephen’s passing shed light on the dangers of undiagnosed heart conditions. His story has since inspired campaigns promoting regular cardiac screenings, particularly for those with a family history of heart disease. His Boyzone bandmates honored his memory by dedicating their 2010 album Brother to him, incorporating his vocals in the song I Can Dream.

Remembering Stephen Gately

Stephen’s life was marked by courage and impact—he was one of the first openly gay pop stars and a source of inspiration for millions. His untimely passing is a stark reminder that even the brightest stars can be dimmed by hidden health risks. By sharing his story, we not only celebrate his life but also raise awareness of silent medical threats that take lives too soon.

For a deeper look into Stephen Gately’s life and Boyzone’s journey, watch Boyzone: No Matter What on Sky Documentaries.