Christopher Ciccone, the younger brother of pop icon Madonna, passed away, at the age of 63 after battling cancer. Christopher had a profound influence on Madonna’s career, working closely with her during her early days. He started as a backup dancer and later became her art director, most notably for her Blond Ambition World Tour (1990) and The Girlie Show (1993). He was also a production designer and interior designer, expanding his career beyond his association with his famous sister.
Born in 1960, Christopher and Madonna shared a complicated yet deep bond. Despite their professional and personal ups and downs, including public disagreements, their connection remained significant throughout their lives. Christopher was one of the key figures behind the scenes of Madonna’s ascent to superstardom, contributing to her visual style and performances. He was also known for his candid 2008 memoir, “Life with My Sister Madonna,” where he shared details of their complicated relationship and experiences growing up together.
Christopher’s death follows the passing of their stepmother, Joan Gustafson Ciccone, who also died from cancer in September 2024, and their eldest brother, Anthony Ciccone, who passed away in 2022. He is survived by his husband, Ray Thacker, and his siblings, including Madonna. His passing has left a deep void in the Ciccone family, especially given the close familial losses in recent years.
Despite their differences, Madonna paid tribute to her brother following his death, expressing that she believed he was “dancing somewhere,” a touching acknowledgment of their shared past in the arts. Christopher’s contributions to the creative world, particularly through his work with Madonna, have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
BROKEN HEARTS
LOVED Saoírse Ruane, who was on The Late Late Toy Show, died of cancer when she was only 12.
The brave girl from Galway, whose appearance on the Toy Show won hearts across the country, died on Tuesday, her family said this morning.
Saoírse was diagnosed with cancer in November 2019 after complaining of an injured ankle. In 2020, her leg was cut off because an Osteosarcoma tumor in her tibia was found to be cancerous and likely to kill her.
When Saoírse joined Ryan Tubridy on the Late Late Toy Show in 2020, her story became well known.
The Galway girl’s fight against a rare form of bone cancer amazed everyone with how strong and tough she was.
The death of Saoírse has broken the hearts of her parents, Roseanna and Ollie, and her little sister Farrah-Rose.
They told everyone about their terrible loss by saying, “After a long brave and dignified battle, our hearts are shattered to tell you that our beautiful little Saoírse took her last breath in our arms on Tuesday.”
“Thank you to all of our wonderful fans for thinking about Saoírse and us over the past few weeks.
“Today, we also think of you because we know how much the country loved Saoírse and how she changed the lives of so many people.”
“Cancer, you took her away from us. You also took away our dreams and the life we had.” Things will never be the same!
Please give us some space as we go on our last and final trip with our beautiful girl. “Farrah Rose and Mamma Dadda.”
President Michael D. Higgins and stars from all over show business have paid tribute to the beloved girl. Her story was told on The Toy Show the first year they started their huge charity campaign.
through her battle, Saoírse’s family gave a “devastating” health update in November of last year, saying that her cancer had spread.
After a recurring tumor was found in her left lung earlier in 2023, they said it was a “huge shock” to them that the cancer had spread to her other lung.
It was Saoírse’s “biggest battle to date” because she had to go through more chemotherapy.
In April, Roseanna said, “Little did they know that their world was about to fall apart again.”
“To say we’re devastated just doesn’t cover it,” she said. It’s not fair that she’s been to war so many times and fought so hard.
Saoírse had already had a few dreams come true, like going to Old Trafford to see Manchester United play and going on her dream vacation to Disneyland.
When people heard that Saoírse had died, they sent her a lot of tributes.
The office of President Michael D. Higgins said, “President Higgins has sent his deepest condolences to the family of Saoírse Ruane from Kiltullagh, Co. Galway, after her death at the age of 12.” Everyone was moved by Saoírse’s strength and kindness.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin also said, “Very saddened by the death of Saoírse Ruane.”
“I will always remember meeting Saoirse and her mother Roseanna in Croke Park and seeing her beautiful smile and love for GAA.”
“The Toy Show Appeal is an amazing thing she left behind.” We’re very sorry for her family and friends’ loss.
Tubs’ tears
After Saoirse’s appearance on The Toy Show, Ryan Tubridy, who used to host Late Late, became friends with her family. He said that the “world is a poorer place” without her.
According to him, hearing the news of his dear young friend Saoírse Ruane’s death made him feel the saddest thoughts possible.
“As soon as we met, we became friends.” People all over the country fell in love with her, and because of her, a charity was founded. Through this, she helped make the lives of thousands of Irish children better and more hopeful.
“A child who is selfless, humble, kind, hopeful, and thoughtful.” She was everything our country should and could be, and her death will make a lot of us think about things.
“My condolences and all the love I can muster go out to Roseanna, Ollie, and Farrah Rose. They are a beautiful family whose whole world has been turned upside down by this tragedy.”
“Thank them for letting us all know about their amazing Saorse.”
“The world is a poorer place without Saoírse but I do hope that twinkle in her eye shines on and on.”
The legacy of Saoírse
Roz Purcell, a radio host on RTE 2FM, said, “No one will forget Saoírse; she left a huge mark and mark on Ireland.”
“In 12 years, she did so much.” May she rest in peace. Think about all of her family and friends who will miss her a lot.
Patrick O’Mahony, the captain of Ireland’s rugby team, said, “I’m very sorry to read this.” She was an inspiration.
Rosana, I’m so sorry, said Kathryn Thomas of RTE. Your lovely daughter made our lives so much better.
“A small part of what she brought into your life.” That smile is great. Thinking about all of you. “Take it easy, little angel.”
Today FM It was DJ Declan Pierce who wrote, “My beautiful friend. It breaks my heart so much.
“The best thing about my job is getting to know Saoírse through the radio show. From the bottom of my heart, I love you all the time.
Singer RuthAnne wrote on her blog, “Heartbroken. She was truly unique, and her bravery knew no bounds.”
“I am so thankful that I met her and had the chance to sing with her. What an honor!”
“That is something I will always treasure and hold close to my heart. Lots of love and light to everyone.”
Saoirse’s funeral will be held at St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh, on Sunday at 1.45 p.m.
It also said, “Saoírse will rest at home on Friday, March 8, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.”
“From the Bullaun Church parking lot (H62 YH66), a bus service will leave. Please follow the stewards’ instructions and only use the bus service to get to the event.”
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