Eighties music star Paul Hardcastle has announced the death of his son following a fatal motorbike accident, sharing the news in a deeply personal post on social media.
Hardcastle revealed that his son, Paul Hardcastle Jr, died earlier this week aged 35.
Writing on Instagram on Monday night, he posted a photograph of his son alongside the message: “Just to let you know that my super talented son Paul Hardcastle Jnr was in a fatal motorcycle accident earlier and has sadly died.
“RIP son love Dad.”
Paul Jnr had followed his father into music, forging his own career as a saxophonist and DJ.
He featured on Hardcastle’s 2008 album Hardcastle 5, appearing on the closing track Take 1, and also worked on his father’s 2022 release Hardcastle X.
In 2010, his debut single Touch and Go, which was produced by his father, reached number one on the US Billboard Jazz Chart.
His official biography described him as “a Billboard chart-topping and Grammy-nominated saxophonist”, noting a career that took him to perform across Europe, the Middle East and beyond, including shows in Dubai, Monaco, Italy and Greece.
He began playing professional gigs at just 16, performing at parties, club nights and corporate events across the UK.
Hardcastle Snr, 68, rose to international fame in 1985 with his chart-topping single 19, a song about the Vietnam War that reached number one in 13 countries.
His career has since spanned decades, with a catalogue rooted in electronic, jazz and R&B-influenced music.
Tributes quickly poured in beneath Hardcastle’s post.
Former TOWIE star James Argent wrote: “I’m so sorry mate, thinking of you all. Heartbreaking.”
Presenter Hayley Palmer added: “Paul, I don’t even have the words – I am so so sorry to hear this. Heartbreaking. Am thinking of you Paul xx.”
“Oh Paul I’m so so sorry for your loss!! Sending you and the family love and strength and this sad time,” wrote S Club’s Jo O’Meara.
Ex TOWIE star Georgia Kousoulou also shared: “In so much shock! I’m so so sorry”.
Fans also shared tributes, with one writing: “Sending my deepest condolences, Mr Hardcastle. I’m keeping you and your family lifted in prayer.”
