Steve Harwell, the lead vocalist of the popular American rock band Smash Mouth, has been placed in hospice care following a medical diagnosis that indicates he is terminally ill.
Management for the 56-year-old singer has confirmed that he has reached the advanced stages of liver failure and is expected to have only “a week or so” left to live. The statement also acknowledges Harwell’s long-standing battle with alcohol addiction, which has been a part of his life.
Harwell’s health issues were previously reported in 2021 when he performed in a state of inebriation, slurring his words and making threatening remarks towards the audience. Subsequently, he announced his retirement from the band in order to focus on his health.
In response to his retirement, Smash Mouth issued a statement to the Los Angeles Times, explaining that Harwell had left the band to address “longstanding medical issues.” They expressed that despite Harwell’s sincere efforts to overcome these health challenges, it had become impossible for him to continue performing, much to his disappointment.
In 2015, Harwell received a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, which led to various additional health complications, including heart failure and Wernicke’s encephalopathy. These medical conditions significantly impacted his motor functions, including speech and memory, according to a spokesperson cited by TMZ.
Harwell, in a public statement at the time of his retirement, expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream of being a rockstar and performing in sold-out arenas. He also conveyed his deep appreciation for his bandmates, describing it as an honor to perform alongside them throughout their journey in the music industry.
