Children of Bodom rocker Alexi Laiho dies aged 41

Children of Bodom rocker Alexi Laiho has died aged 41.

The death of Alexi, who was best known as the lead guitarist, lead vocalist and founding member of Finnish metal band Children of Bodom, was announced by his Bodom After Midnight bandmates in a heartbreaking tweet on Monday.    

Alexi died at his home in Helsinki, Finland last week, he had suffered from long-term health issues during his last years, a statement posted to his official Instagram page read.  

His bandmates wrote: ‘It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho. 

Rock legend: Children of Bodom rocker Alexi Laiho has died aged 41

‘We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken for the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member.’

The post was signed off by Daniel Freyberg,  Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen. 

His bandmates added: ‘We are crushed by the sudden passing of our dear friend and band member. Words cannot describe this shock and the profound sadness that we feel.’ 

Laiho’s wife, Kelli Laiho-Wright, said in a statement to Louder: ‘Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.’ 

RIP: The death of Alexi, who was best known as the lead guitarist, lead vocalist and founding member of Finnish metal band Children of Bodom, was announced by his Bodom After Midnight bandmates in a heartbreaking tweet on Monday

His sister added: ‘We are all absolutely shocked and devastated. We ask for privacy and understanding during these hard times. My little brother’s funeral will take place privately.’ 

Alexi founded Children of Bodom in 1993, with the group splitting at the end of 2019. In 2020, he formed Bodom After Midnight.  

More to follow.