Clodagh Rodgers, the beloved Northern Irish singer and Eurovision icon, has passed away at the age of 77 after a private, three-year battle with illness. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news over the weekend.
Rodgers rose to fame in 1971 when she represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest with her upbeat track “Jack In The Box”. Her energetic performance earned the UK fourth place with 98 points—just behind Monaco’s winning entry.
The news of her passing was shared by her son, Sam Sorbie, in an emotional Facebook tribute. He revealed that Clodagh passed away peacefully on Friday, surrounded by family at their home in Cobham.
“With a heavy heart, my dear beautiful mum Clodagh has sadly passed away after battling an illness for the last three years,” he wrote. “She passed away peacefully yesterday surrounded by her family. Mum lived an incredible life full of love and happiness—performing, travelling the world, devoting herself to her two sons, and being the rock of our family.”
“Life won’t be the same without Mum, but she is now at peace with Dad, Nanny, and Pappa. We all love and miss her terribly.”
Fans flooded social media with messages of love and remembrance, paying tribute to her talent, warmth, and legacy. One wrote, “Those of us on here know what a special lady she was. A great talent and a lovely person—much underrated.” Another added, “She brought so much joy to so many people. May she rest in peace.”
Born in Ballymena, Northern Ireland on March 5, 1947, Clodagh’s musical journey began at a young age. She got her professional start at just 13 years old, opening for Michael Holliday. Her father, who worked as a dancehall tour promoter, helped her secure a record deal with Decca Records in 1962.
Her early career saw her working with renowned producer Shel Talmy and landing a spot on BBC TV’s Adam Faith Show in the same year, where she charmed viewers with her rendition of “Let’s Jump the Broomstick.”
Throughout her career, Clodagh Rodgers remained a cherished figure in British pop culture. Her charisma, voice, and unwavering charm left an enduring mark on fans across generations.
She will be remembered not only for her music but for the kindness, strength, and love she brought into the lives of those who knew her—both near and far.
