The 46-year-old Sligo-born singer has previously spoken about the health problems that affected him in recent years and ultimately led him to step away from Westlife.
According to a report by The Sunday Times, Feehily’s medical difficulties began after he underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in August 2020. The procedure is commonly performed as a form of bariatric surgery to help patients lose weight.
Feehily alleges that surgeon Nick Carter did not remove a sufficient amount of his stomach during the procedure. His legal case claims that tissue left behind contributed to a leak, which subsequently resulted in serious abdominal infections and repeated episodes of sepsis.
His condition reportedly required numerous hospital admissions. In 2023, he underwent another major operation in which his remaining stomach was removed in a procedure known as a total gastrectomy.
Feehily’s solicitors, Leigh Day, have now lodged a medical negligence claim against Carter at the High Court in London.
Suzanne White, a partner at Leigh Day, confirmed that the firm is representing the singer in proceedings concerning the surgery and its alleged consequences.
She said Feehily had worked hard to keep supporters informed about his health while going through what had been an exceptionally difficult period. However, she added that he would not be making further comments while the court proceedings are ongoing.
Carter has been approached for a response and, according to The Sunday Times, denies allegations of negligence.
Feehily's health difficulties have also affected his career. In 2022, he withdrew from a number of Westlife performances after developing pneumonia. Two years later, in February 2024, he announced that he would take a step back from the group ahead of their planned tour.
Westlife, which formed in 1998, originally consisted of Feehily, Shane Filan, Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne and Brian McFadden. McFadden departed in 2004, while the group later split in 2012 before reuniting in 2018.
The band is currently marking its 25th anniversary with a major world tour. The group has also been performing a 13-show residency at Dublin’s 3Arena before continuing with concerts in cities including Glasgow, Manchester, London and Cardiff.
Over their career, Westlife have sold more than 55 million records and achieved 13 number-one singles and nine number-one albums in Ireland. Their best-known songs include Flying Without Wings, You Raise Me Up and If I Let You Go.
The legal proceedings concerning Feehily’s surgery are ongoing.
