Christine McVie, Fleetwood Mac Keyboardist, Cause of Death Finally Revealed

At the time of her passing, the musician's family stayed tight-lipped, noting only that she died 'following a short illness.'

More details have come to light surrounding the death of Christine McVie, the musician who famously served as the keyboardist, as well as additional vocalist, for Fleetwood Mac for over 50 years.

McVie died at age 79 on Nov. 30, though the only details given by her family was that she passed away "following a short illness."

Months later, her death certificate, obtained by The Blast, finally revealed the reason behind the singer-songwriter's passing.

According to the document, McVie suffered an "ischaemic stroke," the most common type of stroke which occurs when blood supply to the brain is cut off, per Stoke Association.

A secondary cause of death was also named in the certificate, which revealed McVie was diagnosed with "metastatic malignancy of unknown primary origin," meaning cancer had spread in her body but the primary source or tumor was undetected.

The National Institute of Health describes the condition as "a metastatic tumor for which the site of origin is not suggested by a thorough history, physical examination, chest x-ray studies, routine blood and urine studies, and histologic evaluation."

Related: 10 Best Christine McVie Fleetowood Mac Songs

McVie’s team first announced the news of her passing with an Instagram post that read, “On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death.”

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“She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th, 2022 following a short illness,” the statement continued. “She was in the company of her family.”

The message went on to say, “We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally."

“RIP Christine McVie,” the post concluded.

A statement on behalf of Fleetwood Mac was also released via Instagram shortly after, with a message calling McVie “truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure."

"She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life," wrote the band, lead by McVie and co-frontwoman Stevie Nicks. "We were so lucky to have a life with her."

"We cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have," the post concluded. "She will be so very missed."

Next: Stevie Nicks Pays Tribute to Late Fleetwood Mac Member Christine McVie on Tour