|
|
|
This is the photograph of troubled rocker Shane McGowan that has sparked new fears over his health.
Looking haggard and with dark riners under his eyes. the former Pogues singer was performing at his comeback concert.
McGowan appeared tired and unwell when he took to the stage at 2am at Eamon Doran's pub in Temple Bar, Dublin.
Press photographers were prevented from attending- the show but the Irish Mirror obtained exclusive photos taken by celebrity website Showbizireland.com.
The star looked the worse for wear as he chain-smoked his way through a one-hour set which came hours after an appearance at the UCD college annual ball.
He has also put on a lot of weight since checking" into the celebrity clinic. The Priory", last September.
McGowan was spotted drinking in Bloom's Hotel in Temple Bar on several nights in the clays leading up to the concert on Wednesday.
And last nierht one source close to the star said there were fears that Shane was slipping back into his old boozing ways.
The source said: "He looks like an ill man. anyone could see that.
"He has put on a lot of weight, which some people might think is a prood thing.
"But if you look at his eyes then you can tell that he doesn't appear to be in the best of health.
"His health has gone down hill over the years but I think people were expecting to see a better Shane after his time in rehab.
"Some people in the crowd were really shocked when he walked on stage and looked so unwell."
McGowan, who was friends with Kirsty MacColl who died in a boating incident last year. has spent the past month in Dublin recording in Sun City studios.
The star has struck a deal with his manager Joey Cashman in which he helps to produce an album for a new band in return for having his expenses paid.
A friend said last night: "It's the perfect situation for Shane. He gets to stay in Dublin and doesn't have to fork out a penny.
"In return, all he has to do Is turn up to the studio each day and sing for a couple of hours.
"The band's boss is a man who used to be a roadie for the Pogrues so he is calling in a favour from Shane."