Alexi Laiho death: Children of Bodom musician dies suddenly aged 41

News was shared by Laiho’s bandmates on social media

Alexi Laiho performing with Children of Bodom in 2017 (Rex Features)

Alexi Laiho, frontman for Finnish metal band Children of Bodom, has died suddenly aged 41.

The musician, ranked consistently as one of the best guitarists in the world, had been suffering from longterm health issues, according to reports. 

The news was announced in a statement posted on the Twitter account of independent label Napalm Records, from Laiho’s supergroup Bodom After Midnight. 

“It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho. We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken for the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member,” the statement said.

It was signed by Laiho’s bandmates Daniel Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen.

Laiho formed Children of Bodom with Jaska Raatikainen in 1993, and remained in the band until its dissolution in December 2019.

Last year, he formed Bodom After Midnight, with whom he recorded three songs and a music video, which Brave Words reports will be released posthumously.  

The guitarist, who received a number of international music awards over his career, was also associated with acts including Warmen, the hardcore punk band Kylähullut ("Village Idiots"), and The Local Band.  

In 2015, he led a group of 100 guitar players at Helsinki Festival in 2015, in a concert piece he composed himself.

Louder Sound reports that his wife, Kelli Laiho-Wright, said: "Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.”