Duncan Sheik, Renowned Singer and Composer, Passes Away at 56

WHO:

Deadline - Duncan Sheik, a singer-songwriter and composer, has died at the age of 56.

Variety - Sheik was known for his hit song "Barely Breathing" and his work on the Broadway musical "Spring Awakening."

Deadline - His death was announced by his mother, Suzanne Sheik.

WHAT:

TMZ - Duncan Sheik has died, as confirmed by a post on his social media.

Deadline - Sheik died of cardiac arrest.

NY Post - His family revealed that he was "receiving medical care" and was in "critical but stable condition" prior to his death.

WHEN:

Deadline - Duncan Sheik died on September 17, 2026.

WHY:

Deadline - The cause of death was cardiac arrest.

HOW:

Rolling Stone Music - Sheik won multiple Tony Awards and a Grammy for his work, including his collaboration with Steven Sater on a rock musical.

(UPDATED September 18, 2026 16:01 UTC)

Duncan Sheik, the acclaimed singer-songwriter and composer known for his hit song "Barely Breathing" and the Broadway musical "Spring Awakening," has died at the age of 56 from cardiac arrest. His family shared that he had been receiving medical care and was in critical but stable condition before his passing, which was confirmed through a post on his social media. Sheik was a celebrated artist, winning multiple Tony Awards and a Grammy for his contributions to music and theater, including his collaboration with Steven Sater on a rock musical.