Singer and actor Meat Loaf dies aged 74

Meat Loaf dies

Singer and actor Meat Loaf (real name Michael Lee Aday) has died at the age of 74.

The Grammy-winner passed away on the evening of Thursday 20 January with his wife Deborah by his side.

Meat Loaf’s 1977 album Bat Out Of Hell (written and produced by regular collaborator Jim Steinman) remains one of the best-selling records of all-time. Its singles, Two Of Three Ain’t Bad and Paradise By The Dashboard Light — which peaked at No.11 and No.39 on the Billboard, respectively — were both certified platinum in 2018.

Steinman and Meat Loaf also collaborated on Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell in 1993. Its lead single I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) would be his only No.1 in the UK.

I hope paradise is as you remember it from the dashboard light, Meat Loaf. Had a fun time performing a sketch with him on Saturday Live way back in the last century – https://t.co/RxoH36OYHw
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 21, 2022

“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight,” the family said in a statement. “Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours.

“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man. We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time.

“From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!”

This is one of my all time favourite albums. I interviewed Meat Loaf and saw him live several times and he never disappointed. One of the great rock stars with an incredible voice and attitude. And Bat Out Of Hell is beyond amazing. RIP great man. https://t.co/kJIAjjVDCr
— David Quantick (@quantick) January 21, 2022

Apart from his work in music, Meat Loaf also appeared in over 65 movies, including roles in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fight Club, Spice World: The Movie and Wayne’s World.

His final album, Braver Than We Are, was released in 2016.