The Script's Danny O'Donoghue breaks silence on why Glen Power is MISSING from the band's new album... and reveals the LIFE-CHANGING decision he made to cope with losing 'brother from another mother' Mark Sheehan

As The Script launches their latest album, The User’s Guide to Being Human, frontman Danny O'Donoghue reveals the profound personal and professional shifts that shaped this project. The album marks a pivotal moment for the band, coming after the tragic loss of longtime bandmate Mark Sheehan three years ago and the temporary absence of drummer Glen Power.

Sheehan, who passed away suddenly in the United States, was more than a bandmate to O'Donoghue; they shared a deep bond that began in childhood. Their friendship spanned decades, from early days in the boyband MyTown to their eventual breakthrough with The Script. This loss, O'Donoghue admits, deeply impacted him, influencing the tone and creation of the new album.

In navigating his grief, O'Donoghue made the significant decision to embrace sobriety. He stepped away from alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine simultaneously—a choice he describes as transformative. Previously, alcohol had been a crutch, a way to unlock emotions needed for songwriting and to cope with life's pressures. However, after Sheehan’s death, Danny recognized that continuing to drink was obstructing genuine emotional processing.

The transition to sobriety has brought clarity and presence to O'Donoghue’s life. He emphasizes that while drinking once felt integral to his creative process, he now finds that truth and emotional expression come more naturally without substances. Therapy and new outlets, including boxing, have also played important roles in his healing journey, offering healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

The absence of Glen Power from the new album marks another shift for The Script. O'Donoghue indicates that Power has stepped away temporarily, and the band has involved other musicians for this record. The future configuration of the group remains uncertain, but O'Donoghue stresses that they continue to work through these changes while promoting the album.

Beyond personal challenges, O'Donoghue is vocal about broader concerns affecting the music industry. He recently engaged with Irish legislators to advocate for stronger copyright protections against AI-driven content scraping, highlighting the threat posed to creative artists, especially those with fewer resources. He also supports policies to increase the presence of Irish music on national radio, citing examples from other countries where such measures have bolstered local music scenes.

The thematic core of The User’s Guide to Being Human reflects O'Donoghue’s focus on genuine human connection in an era dominated by technology and digital distractions. The album encourages listeners to look beyond screens and engage more meaningfully with each other, a message underscored by O'Donoghue’s own experiences and observations.

Marriage has brought a new grounding influence to O'Donoghue's life as well. He married his longtime partner, Anais Naing, last year, describing the union as a stabilizing force that deepens his sense of commitment and future planning. This personal milestone complements his sobriety and renewed artistic vision, all converging in the thematic threads running through the new album.

Despite the changes and challenges, O'Donoghue remains dedicated to his craft and transparent about his growth. He acknowledges the evolution in his songwriting, now fueled by clarity and emotional honesty rather than reliance on substances. His journey reflects a broader narrative of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of music to articulate shared human experiences.

As The Script moves forward, the band’s current lineup and creative direction continue to evolve. The full story behind Glen Power’s hiatus remains private for now, but the group’s commitment to producing music that resonates deeply with their audience remains steadfast. O'Donoghue’s candid reflections provide a window into the complexities of life after loss, the quest for authenticity, and the ongoing pursuit of artistic and personal fulfillment.