Alexi Laiho of Finnish metal band Children of Bodom dies aged 41

Former Children Of Bodom singer and guitarist Alexi Laiho has died aged 41 following "long-term health issues".

According to his label, Naplam, the Finnish musician passed away at home in Heklsinki last week.

Laiho was born in the Finnish city of Espoo in 1979 and went on to form Children of Bodom with drummer Jaska Raatikainen in 1993, under the name of Inearthed.

The band released their acclaimed debut album Something Wild in 1997 and drew widespread praise for their unique brand of melodic death metal.

Laiho led Children of Bodom until their dissolution at the end of 2019. In 2020, he formed a new supergroup - Bodom After Midnight.

Bodom After Midnight made its live debut on October 23, 2020 at Rytmikorjaamo in Seinäjoki, Finland. The 17-song show consisted entirely of Children of Bodom material, but the band reportedly recorded new music in November.

"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", said his Bodom After Midnight bandmates Daniel Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen.

Laiho’s wife, Kelli Laiho-Wright, said: "Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.”

Statement from 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.

Daniel, Mitja & Waltteri pic.twitter.com/AohWJpfnFg

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