Tayyaba
Polaris is a popular Australian metalcore band that was formed in 2012 and has since released three studio albums, all of which have been critically acclaimed. Recently, they revealed that their guitarist, Ryan Siew (who had previously been struggling with health issues) has passed away. He was only 26.
What is the cause of Ryan Siew’s death?
The cause of Ryan Siew’s death has not been publicly released. However, in a January 2023 Instagram post with him on a hospital bed, Siew shared that he had been struggling with depression and brain fog and announced that he will be “stepping away” from the band to focus on his health. It is likely that Siew’s tragic death was related to his mental health struggles but it is also possible that there was another underlying health condition. Siew’s bandmates announced his death on June 27, 2023, saying that he was “26 years old, and for 10 incredible years he was our best friend and artistic soulmate.” They also said that he would be “deeply missed by all who knew him.” Siew’s untimely death was a shock to his fans and the music community. He was a young, talented guitarist and a gifted songwriter. His music will continue to inspire people for years to come and his death is a huge loss to the music industry and Polaris.
“He was kindhearted and clever, he was funny and brave and creative, and he was talented beyond all measure. He loved art, and beauty in all its forms. He loved great food in great company. He loved Harry Potter and psych-thrillers and crime documentaries. He loved music, more diversely than you could ever imagine, and spoke its language in ways that only the rarest among us do.”
A statement by Polaris on the death of Ryan Siew
What were Polaris’ comments on Ryan Siew’s passing?
Polaris began it’s statement with “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and brother, Ryan Siew” and went on to beautifully describe who Ryan was to them. Further, they added, “And most of all, he loved & adored his family & friends. He was also much admired and beloved by so many. Ryan, we will love and miss you for the rest of our days, and we will never fill the hole that you leave in all of our lives.”
“Our hearts are with his family first and foremost, but also with all those whose lives he touched,” they wrote, “We ask that you please respect the wishes of Ryan’s family for privacy at this time, and likewise that you give us, our team and family the space to grieve & attempt to heal from this immeasurable loss. We know that you will be grieving with us and that we, and our community, will hold each other through this.” Before concluding their message, the band members sent a message to Siew in which they wrote, “May you be at peace.” This statement was re-shared over a 100,000 times on Twitter and received thousands of comments with fans expressing their grief and offering their condolences.