Lea Michele has paid tribute to Duncan Sheik, the songwriter-composer with whom she worked and who died on Thursday at age 56. Michele starred in Spring Awakening, which earned Sheik two Tony Awards in 2007 — Best Original Score (shared with Steven Sater) and Best Orchestrations.
“I met Duncan when I was 14 years old,” the Glee star wrote, sharing a photo of them together on her Instagram story. “I listened to a demo on tape of him singing songs from Spring Awakening outside of my middle school before my first audition.”
She added: “I’m at a loss for words. This one hurts and does not seem real. Thank you for everything you gave us. And for the time we had together. Sending all my love and prayers now to Nora, Ines, and Duncan’s family.” The Instagram story also featured her singing “Mama Who Bore Me” from the musical while he played guitar in a rehearsal space.
Sheik’s mother, Suzanne, confirmed the singer’s death to The New York Times, stating the cause was organ failure. Earlier that week, the singer-composer had been in “critical but stable” condition in a hospital and “receiving medical care” following an unspecified health issue.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Duncan Sheik. The world has lost a singular talent and deeply influential voice in music and theater,” Sheik’s social media account posted Friday. “Duncan was a father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him.”
Also Read
- Taylor Swift Named First Recipient of MTV VMA Artist Director Honors
- Understanding Pledge Furniture Polish: Does It Expire and How to Identify Degradation?
- Artificial Brain Unveil New Album ‘Antillia,’ Release Lead Single ‘Quantum Malignancies’
- Cate Blanchett Appeals to Audiences to Cease On-Stage Filming


