Louis Walsh reignites feud with Ronan Keating, calls his music career 'over'

Louis Walsh has once again publicly criticized singer Ronan Keating, asserting that Keating's music career is finished and he will not achieve another hit song. Walsh, who was instrumental in forming the band Boyzone that launched Keating's career and later managed his solo endeavors until 2009, made these remarks on the Irish documentary series The Big Interview.

Walsh, 74, characterized Keating, 49, as a "karaoke artist," claiming that Keating's belief in his own publicity led to his creative stagnation. "I was picking all the songs - he hasn't had a hit since. He hasn't! He's singing all the old songs now, he doesn't have a record deal," Walsh stated. He added that while Keating was enjoyable to work with initially, his perceived self-importance marked the end of his potential as a pop star.

In the same interview, Walsh also commented on Boyzone, which included members Keith Duffy, Shane Lynch, Mikey Graham, and the late Stephen Gately. Walsh described the group as "puppets for Westlife," asserting that he was responsible for all the work and song selection for Boyzone.

Walsh recounted an anecdote about Keating's admiration for George Michael, suggesting that Keating's interactions with the late pop icon in London were an attempt to emulate him. Walsh claimed that Michael's friendliness was actually directed at Stephen Gately, whom Michael fancied.

Despite his strong criticisms, Walsh maintained that he has moved past the conflict. "We had great times together, we had great fun, but it was a bad divorce, and it's fine - I'm over it," he said. He suggested Keating would continue to find work in other areas of entertainment such as DJing, acting, or dancing.

Keating previously spoke about Boyzone's early career in 2025, describing the members as "five young lads thrown to the wolves" and highlighting the pressures of fame that led them to suppress their emotions. He indicated that a retrospective look at their experiences had been difficult.

This recent exchange follows another feud Walsh reignited last month with singer Cheryl. Walsh, who managed Girls Aloud from 2002 to 2004, commented on Cheryl's time as an X Factor judge, suggesting she received a sympathy vote due to personal issues and that her success was aided by significant help.