The Tragically Hip's Gord Downie Passes Away, Age 53

The Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie has passed away, aged 53. 

The beloved Canadian group embarked on a farewell tour last year upon Downie's diagnosis of brain cancer. 

The band shared a statement from Downie's family via their Facebook page, saying "Last night Gord quietly passed away with his beloved children and family close by. Gord knew this day was coming - his response was to spend this precious time as he always had - making music, making memories and expressing deep gratitude to his family and friends for a life well lived, often sealing it with a kiss… on the lips."

Tributes have been flowing in for Downie, including one from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

"We are less as a country without Gord Downie in it. We all knew it was coming but we hoped it wasn't," shared Trudeau.

"Downie uncovered and told the stories of Canada. He was the frontman of one of Canada's most iconic bands, a rock star, artist, and poet whose evocative lyrics came to define a country. He loved every hidden corner, every aspect of this country that he celebrated his whole life. And he wanted to make it better."

The Tragically Hip chose to share their final tour in their upcoming documentary, Long Time Running, which is due for selected theatre release in the US on 21 Oct. Watch the trailer for the film below.