Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie dies at 79

Christine McVie, the singer, songwriter and keyboardist for famed British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac, has died, according to an announcement from her family. She was 79.

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In a statement posted Wednesday on social media, McVie’s family said she died “peacefully at hospital this morning ... following a short illness.”

“She was in the company of her family,” the statement read. “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally.”

In a statement, Fleetwood Mac members said they had “no words to describe our sadness at the passing of Christine McVie.”

“She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure,” they said.

“She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life. We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”

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— Fleetwood Mac (@fleetwoodmac) November 30, 2022

Born Christine Perfect, McVie joined Fleetwood Mac in 1971 after marrying the band’s bassist, John McVie, BBC News reported. The couple divorced in 1976, according to Variety.

McVie left Fleetwood Mac in 1998 following the death of her father and subsequently embarked on a successful solo career, according to Sky News. She returned to the band in 2014, the news network reported.

The band has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, making it one of the most successful groups in history, The Guardian reported. McVie penned several of Fleetwood Mac’s hits, including “Songbird,“ “Don’t Stop,” “Little Lies” and “Everywhere.”