Clodagh Rodgers, the beloved Northern Irish pop singer and Eurovision icon, has passed away at the age of 78 after battling illness for the past three years. Her son, Sam Sorbie, shared the sad news on social media, honoring his mother’s extraordinary life and legacy.
In an emotional Facebook tribute, Sorbie reflected on Rodgers’ rich life, writing, “Mum has lived an incredible life, full of love and happiness.” He praised her not only as a talented performer who traveled the world, but also as a devoted mother and “the rock” of their family. He added that Rodgers passed peacefully at home in Cobham, surrounded by loved ones.
Rodgers rose to fame in the late 1960s and reached international attention when she represented the United Kingdom in the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest. Her song Jack In The Box earned her a fourth-place finish and became a major hit in the UK, reaching number four on the charts. The performance stood out not just for its pop appeal, but also for the courage it took—she took to the stage in Dublin during a politically tense time and even received death threats from the IRA for representing the UK.
Despite the risks, Rodgers delivered a vibrant and fearless performance that resonated with audiences. Over her career, she had several other hits, including Come Back and Shake Me and Goodnight Midnight, and was known for her dynamic stage presence and infectious energy. She also briefly transitioned into television, hosting The Clodagh Rodgers Show and appearing on a number of entertainment programs before stepping away from the spotlight to focus on family.
Rodgers’ contribution to British and Irish pop music has left a lasting mark. While she lived a more private life in recent decades, her legacy as a trailblazing performer and Eurovision legend lives on.
