Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie’s cause of death revealed: ‘Massive stroke’ caused by cancer

The beloved Fleetwood Mac keyboardist died last November aged 79, and it has now been revealed her death was caused by a stroke brought on by an aggressive form of cancer, according to a report from the New York Post.

Her death certificate reveals she had been diagnosed with a “metastatic malignancy of unknown primary origin”, with cancer spreading through her body without a clear source.

McVie officially died of an “ischaemic stroke”, with cancer as the secondary cause. According to the Mayo Clinic, an ischaemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is slowed or interrupted, stopping brain tissue from getting nutrients and oxygen and causing cells to die “in minutes”.

The band’s official Twitter account said after her death: “There are no words to describe the sadness at the passing of Christine McVie. She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure. She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life.”

“We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”

Her family wrote on Instagram: “She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness.”

READ MORE:
• Stevie Nicks and Keith Urban perform rocky duet of 'Stop Draggin' My Heart Around' live
• Celebrating 40 years of Fleetwood Mac's 'Tusk': Watch their official video for the song

McVie’s Fleetwood Mac bandmate Stevie Nicks also shared a heartfelt tribute to her friend, writing, “I didn’t even know she was ill ... until late Saturday night.

“I wanted to be in London; I wanted to get to London – but we were told to wait. So, since Saturday, one song has been swirling around in my head, over and over and over.

“I thought I might possibly get to sing it to her, and so, I’m singing it to her now. I always knew I would need these words one day,” she continued, before writing out the lyrics to Haim’s 2019 song Hallelujah: “I had a best friend but she has come to pass / One I wish I could see now / You always remind me that memories will last / These arms reach out.”

Nicks added, “See you on the other side, my love. Don’t forget me – Always, Stevie.”

This article was first published by the NZ Herald and is republished here with edits and permission.