Sinead O'Connor, the Grammy-winning Irish singer, has passed away at the age of 56, as announced by her family. She rose to global fame in 1990 with her hit ballad "Nothing Compares 2 U," and throughout her career, she was known for her outspokenness about social and political issues. In 1992, she made headlines by tearing up a photo of Pope John Paul II on the US TV show Saturday Night Live.

The cause of her death has not been disclosed yet, and she leaves behind three children. Tragically, her son Shane died last year at the age of 17, having left the hospital while on suicide watch.

In her final social media post, Sinead tweeted a picture of her late son and wrote a heartfelt message: "Been living as undead night creature since. He was the love of my life, the lamp of my soul. We were one soul in two halves. He was the only person who ever loved me unconditionally. I am lost in the bardo without him."

A documentary featuring Sinead and filmed shortly before her passing will be aired this weekend, where the late star opens up about her past struggles in her final interview.

Sinead's family released a statement expressing their grief: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time."