It’s been confirmed that Steve Harwell, lead vocalist and co-founder of the band Smash Mouth, has died at age 56. The news comes just after he was said to have entered hospice for complications of liver failure. He passed away in his home in Boise, Idaho on Monday.
As shared via TMZ, a manager for Steve Harwell said “Steve has been struggling with alcohol abuse throughout his life — and now, he’s reached the final stage of liver failure … for which he’d, up until recently, been receiving treatment at a hospital.”
Harwell’s death comes after several years of retirement from the band Smash Mouth in addition to various health issues. TMZ notes that some of these included “cardiomyopathy, heart failure and Wernicke’s encephalopathy” in addition to “substance abuse” which all “contributed to his declining state.” Wernicke’s encephalopathy is said to be able to impact motor functions such as speech, memory, and heart failure.
Many fans will remember Harwell’s contributions to the hit animated film Shrek. His band Smash Mouth had songs on the film’s soundtrack which included “All Star” and “I’m a Believer.” The song “All Star” was also featured in several other movies including the 1999 film Mystery Men. “All Star” would continue to be nominated for awards and received positive reviews.
His retirement was preceded by a performance at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, New York in October 2021. He appeared to be intoxicated at the event and further threatened audience members which led to the announcement of his leaving the band.
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any potential updates as we have them. For now, this is disappointing news for fans of Smash Mouth and condolences go out to the friends and family of Steve Harwell. Many fans will continue to remember Harwell for his positive contributions to music and the band Smash Mouth.