Celtic Thunder are deeply saddened to announce the death of principal singer George Donaldson, who died from a massive heart attack on Wednesday, 12th March 2014 at his home in Glasgow, Scotland. Born and raised in Glasgow, George Donaldson was a self-taught musician, accomplished on both guitar and flute, with a lifelong passion for Celtic music inspired by his late father Bernard
George Donaldson joined Celtic Thunder in 2007 after auditioning for the show’s producer Sharon Browne and was invaluable in helping to establish the show’s trademark celebration of Irish and Scottish heritage. Known in Celtic Thunder as the “steadfast” one Donaldson carried the distinction of being the sole Scotsman in the show, as well as the only married family man of the group.
“When starting Celtic Thunder, I wanted to cast a mature, dependable Man as one of the characters. Over the 7 years since, I learned that George Donaldson was the embodiment of such a Man. A kind, loving, gentle giant, George was as affectionate as he was professional. A pleasure to work with, an amazing family man to his wife Carolyn and his daughter Sarah, an important and loved friend to myself and everyone in Celtic Thunder. I am devastated at his sudden and untimely death. Rest in Peace with your parents George, you will be sorely missed.” producer Sharon Browne commented.
Along with his work with Celtic Thunder George has released two solo albums The White Rose in 2011 and The World In My Mind in 2013.