Paddy Bowden, the estranged wife of Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson, died on May 18, 2020, at the age of 59. Her death was described as a “tragic accident” by her family, but the exact cause and circumstances of her passing remain unclear. Here is what we know so far about Paddy Bowden’s cause of death and her life with Bruce Dickinson.
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A Tragic Accident
Paddy Bowden was found dead at her home in Chiswick, West London, on Monday morning. According to The Sun, paramedics in hazmat suits were seen entering the house, which raised speculation that she might have contracted COVID-19. However, this was later dismissed by a source close to the family, who said that the protective gear was a standard procedure during the pandemic.
The London Ambulance Service confirmed that they responded to a call of a person unwell at the address, but sadly pronounced her dead at the scene. The Metropolitan Police also stated that they attended the incident and found no suspicious circumstances. A post-mortem examination is expected to be carried out to determine the exact cause of death.
Bruce Dickinson, who was in Paris with his new partner Leana Dolci at the time of the tragedy, issued a statement expressing his grief and requesting privacy for his family. He said: “This is a terrible tragedy which appears to be a tragic accident. Our children Austin, Griffin and Kia and I are devastated. Out of respect for Paddy we won’t be making any further comment at this hugely difficult and painful time for our family.”
A Long Marriage and a Bitter Divorce
Paddy Bowden was Bruce Dickinson’s second wife, whom he married in 1990 after divorcing his first wife Jane Barnett. They had three children together: Austin, Griffin and Kia. Paddy was a former model and a homemaker who supported Bruce’s career as a musician, pilot, author and entrepreneur. She also helped him through his battle with stage three throat cancer in 2015, which he successfully overcame after six months of treatment.
However, their marriage came to an end in 2018, when Bruce moved out of their marital home and started a new relationship with Leana Dolci, a fitness instructor and Iron Maiden fan from Paris. The divorce was reportedly one of the most expensive in British rock history, costing Bruce around £90 million. Paddy remained in their Chiswick house, while Bruce bought a new property nearby to be close to his children.
According to The Sun, Paddy was struggling with depression and loneliness after the split, and had turned to alcohol and prescription drugs to cope. She had also isolated herself from her friends and family, and rarely left her house. A source said: “Paddy was in a very dark place following her split from Bruce. She felt very alone and didn’t have many friends. She was very dependent on alcohol and prescription drugs.”
A Loving Mother and a Devoted Wife
Despite the bitter end of their marriage, Paddy Bowden was remembered by her loved ones as a loving mother and a devoted wife. Her son Austin Dickinson, who is the lead singer of the band As Lions, paid tribute to her on Instagram, writing: “You were a beautiful soul who survived so much hardship but always kept a smile on your face. You were also one hell of a mum.”
Her daughter Kia Dickinson also shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying: “I don’t want to believe you’re gone. You were an angel who touched so many lives with your love and kindness.”
Bruce Dickinson also acknowledged Paddy’s role in his life and career in his autobiography What Does This Button Do?, which he dedicated to her and their children. He wrote: “To my children Austin, Griffin and Kia for their love and understanding through some difficult times; to my wife Paddy for being my inspiration.”
