The former guitarist of legendary rock group Whitesnake, Bernie Marsden, has died, aged 72.
The band’s frontman David Coverdale confirmed that the musician had died on Thursday August 24.
Taking to his Instagram page, Coverdale wrote, “I’ve just woken up to the awful news that my old friend and former Snake Bernie Marsden has passed.
Stream the world’s best reality, entertainment and true crime shows for free on 7Bravo on 7plus >>
Whitesnake L-R: Neil Murray, Bernie Marsden, David Coverdale, Micky Moody, David Dowle, Jon Lord – posed, studio, group shot Credit: Fin Costello/Redferns
“My sincere thoughts and prayers to his beloved family, friends and fans.
“A genuinely funny, gifted man, whom I was honoured to know and share a stage with.
“RIP, Bernie XXX.”
Bernie’s family also released a statement confirming the sad news.
The full statement read: “On behalf of his family, it is with deep sadness we announce the death of Bernie Marsden.
“Bernie died peacefully on Thursday evening with his wife, Fran, and daughters, Charlotte and Olivia, by his side.
“Bernie never lost his passion for music, writing and recording new songs until the end.”
Marsden had been battling ill-health for some time and shared a video message in 2022 about the challenging year he had faced.
He was forced to cancel several appearances earlier this year, citing poor health.
Marsden started his career when he was just 17 in the band Skinny Cat. He then went on to c-write some of Whitesnake’s biggest hits., including Fool for Your Loving, Walking in the Shadow of the Blues, She’s A Woman, Lovehunter, and Trouble.
Archie Ferris’ mum was told he just had gastro. What his mum did next saved his life
Why Briana was told her children ‘weren’t worth the investment’
If you’d like to view this content, please adjust your Cookie Settings.
To find out more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Guide.