Prodigy frontman Keith Flint ‘took his own life’ says bandmate Liam Howlett
Keith Flint’s bandmate Liam Howlett said he has been left “heartbroken” and “shell-shocked” as he revealed The Prodigy frontman had “taken his own life”.
Howlett paid tribute to his “brother” on Instagram, telling devastated fans: “The news is true, I can’t believe I’m saying this but our brother Keith took his own life over the weekend.
“I’m shell shocked, f***** angry, confused and heartbroken ..... r.i.p brother Liam #theprodigy (sic).”
Flint previously credited Howlett and the band’s manager John Fairs with helping him overcome his drug and alcohol battle ahead of his reunion with the band in 2009.
He told WENN at the time: “I got heavily into booze and drugs and flooded myself with that, like a sponge. And then I reeled it in.”
Flint’s death was announced on Monday morning, as a spokesperson for Essex Police said: “We were called to concerns for the welfare of a man at just after 8.10am on Monday.
“We attended and sadly, a 49-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.
“The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”
The band, which also includes Maxim Reality (real name Keith Palmer), confirmed the news in a statement, describing Flint as a “brother” and “true pioneer”.
Keith Flint of The Prodigy - In pictures
“It is with deepest shock and sadness that we can confirm the death of our brother and best friend Keith Flint,” they said.
“A true pioneer, innovator and legend. He will be forever missed.
“We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time.”
Tributes poured in from fans and fellow musicians including one half of the Chemical Brothers, Ed Simons, who hailed him a “great man”.
Beverley Knight called him a “titan” while radio DJ Jo Whiley deemed him an “absolute sweetheart”.
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