AWARD-winning Irish writer Ken Bruen has died at the age of 74.
The Galway crime writer published more than 50 pieces of work and is best known for his Jack Taylor novels.
Most notably, he wont the prestigious Shamus Award for Best Crime Novel of the year.
Nine of Bruen’s novels were adapted into a long-running TV series in 2010, starring Iain Glen and Killian Scott.
Bruen passed away on Saturday at University Hospital Galway.
He was born in 1951 in Galway before studying in Gormanstown College in Co Meath.
He went on to study at Trinity College Dublin where he got his PhD in Metaphysics.
Bruen is survived by his wife Phyl Kennedy and daughter Grace.
His official death notice reads: “Ken Bruen (Writer), died on the 29th March 2025 in University Hospital Galway.
“Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Inez, brothers Noel and Declan and sister Jess.
“Will be always missed by his loving wife Philomena and daughter Grace, relatives, neighbours, his dedicated Jack Taylor readers and his many friends.”
His funeral is set to take place on Thursday, April 3 at 12pm at St Patrick’s Church, Forster Street, Co Galway.
‘HEARTBROKEN’
Tributes from friends and fans have been pouring in since Ken’s death was announced.
Editor at the New York Times Ken Jaworowski said: “My gosh, this hurts. Ken Bruen was a masterly writer, and an incredibly kind soul.
“He blurbed my first novel — a rookie who emailed him out of the blue – and took still more time to offer me heartfelt advice. Please read him if you haven’t.”
Author Steven Powell said: “I’m sad to learn that Ken Bruen has died.
“He was an extraordinary writer and I’ll never forget the day he unexpectedly dropped by my website and described Craig McDonald and I as ‘literary heavyweights’. My heart was fit to bursting.”
‘TERRIFIC’ NEW BOOK PRAISED
Another friend said: “I am heartbroken to think that Ken is no longer among us.
“His kindness and encouragement meant a great deal to me when I was starting out as a novelist, and his wit and insight I will continue to cherish.
“When he and I discovered we both had daughters named Grace, he spoke with such great love and admiration of his own Grace, and I hope that his memory may be a blessing to her and to Philomena.
“Thank you for sharing him with us writers in the United States, and readers everywhere. He made it all seem worthwhile, and even better, a grand adventure.”
While a “dedicated fan” added: “Your new book is terrific. I love Jack Taylor. Rest In Peace Ken.
“You never got the credit in Ireland for your genius. We didn’t see you on the Late Late Show every third week.
“You were a writer, not a celebrity. Deepest sympathy to your wonderful wife and daughter.”
