Ronan Keating leads tributes on Stephen Gately’s 15th anniversary

Ronan Keating honoured his bandmate and friend

The singer posted a photo of Gately to Instagram and simply wrote: "15 years" along with a heartbreak emoji.

Fans also paid tribute to the late singer with many admitting they couldn't believe 15 years had passed since the singer's death.

One wrote: "How has it been 15 years already? Seems like just yesterday my mom told me the news when I woke up in the morning."

Another shared: "15 years - hard to believe but in so many ways it feels like yesterday. He’s with you every moment of the day. Thinking of you all today."

"Beautiful tribute to one of your best friends Stephen Gately and he’ll always be remembered," another shared.

Stephen Gately sadly passed away at the age of 33 in 2009.

The singer died from a heart condition during a holiday in Majorca.

Fans of the singer were completely heartbroken when the news of his untimely passing was shared.

Boyzone issued a statement following their beloved friend's death.

"We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit.

"He lit up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo'."

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