Tom Parker, a member of British-Irish boy band The Wanted, has died after being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. He was 33. The band announced that Parker died Wednesday, surrounded by his family and his bandmates.
Parker announced his diagnosis in October 2020 and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Earlier this year, he performed onstage with the group during its much-delayed reunion tour.
The Wanted members Max George, Jay McGuiness, Siva Kaneswaran, and Nathan Sykes said they were devastated by the tragic and premature loss of their bandmate. He was our brother, words can’t express the loss and sadness we feel. Always and forever in our hearts.
Formed in 2009, The Wanted had a string of hit singles including the U.K. No. 1s All Time Low and “Glad You Came. The members went their separate ways in 2014 after releasing three albums but reunited for a September 2021 concert organized by Parker at London’s Royal Albert Hall to support cancer charities.
Before the concert, Parker had said: It’s not that I’m ignoring cancer but I just don’t want to pay it any attention.” The more attention you pay it, the more it consumes your life and I don’t want to consume my life.”
The Wanted released a greatest hits album in 2021, followed by a tour this year. Parker is survived by his wife Kelsey Parker, a son, and a daughter.
Kelsey Parker wrote on Instagram: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm Tom passed away peacefully earlier today with all of his family by his side. Our hearts are broken, Tom was the centre of our world and we can’t imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.”
Parker’s last post shared to the social media platform was of himself alongside his bandmates. He captioned the March 28 photo the “Dream Team.”
