In a heartfelt and somber statement, Iron Maiden’s frontman Bruce Dickinson has paid tribute to his late wife, Paddy Bowden, who passed away unexpectedly.
Known for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence, Dickinson has always been a towering figure in the world of heavy metal. But behind the scenes, it was his wife Paddy who provided him with the stability and support that allowed him to thrive.
Paddy Bowden, Dickinson’s wife of nearly three decades, was found dead at their family home in Chiswick, West London. The news sent shockwaves through the music community, with fans and fellow musicians alike expressing their condolences and support for the grieving singer. The couple, who shared three children—Austin, Griffin, and Kia—had separated in 2019, but despite their marital differences, they remained close, co-parenting their children and maintaining a strong bond of friendship.
In his tribute, Bruce Dickinson described Paddy as “the foundation of our family” and “the person who kept everything together when the world seemed to be falling apart.” He went on to say, “Paddy was my rock. She was the one who kept me grounded during the highs and lows of my career. Her strength, love, and unwavering support were what got me through some of the darkest moments of my life.”
Dickinson, who had faced his own personal battles, including a highly publicized fight against throat cancer in 2014, credited Paddy with being his anchor during that time. “When I was diagnosed with cancer, it was Paddy who stayed by my side, who held my hand through every treatment and every moment of fear. She never wavered, never let me see the depths of her own pain because she was so focused on making sure I got through mine,” he said.
The tragic loss of Paddy Bowden has left a void in Dickinson’s life that, by his own admission, will never be filled. “Losing her is like losing a part of myself,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion. “She was the mother of our children, my confidante, and my best friend. Her absence will be felt every single day, but her memory will live on in our hearts.”
As the heavy metal community rallies around Dickinson in this difficult time, the outpouring of love and support serves as a testament to the deep impact Paddy Bowden had, not just on Dickinson, but on everyone who knew her. “Paddy was an extraordinary woman,” Dickinson concluded. “She may be gone, but her spirit, her love, and her strength will always be with us.