Jeff Beck died with 'devastated' Johnny Depp 'at bedside in final moments'

12 January 2023 , 10:03

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Jeff Beck was surrounded by loved ones in the lead up to his death and passed away 'peacefully' (Image: Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Renowned rock guitarist Jeff Beck died this week at the age of 78 and spent his final hours surrounded by fellow rock stars.

The singer, known for his work with the Yardbirds and the Jeff Beck Group passed away "peacefully" on Tuesday.

A statement posted on the musician’s official Twitter page read: “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing.

“After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday.

“His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”

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Johnny Depp, who was one of the close friends who spent time with Jeff before he died said that he was "devastated" by his passing.

Jeff Beck passed away this week (Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Last year Johnny and Jeff released their album, which was titled 18, on July 15.

Shortly after Johnny's court case against Amber Heard, in November last year he performed beside his pal - neither of them aware that it would be Jeff's last gig.

A source has told People that the Pirates of The Caribbean star is "totally devastated" by the news.

Johnny Depp performed with Jeff at his last gig (Redferns)

"They had a really tight friendship, they were extremely close, and he got even closer over this past summer when they were touring together," the source said.

"The sickness came on really quickly and it all deteriorated rapidly in the last couple weeks."

The insider added that Johnny was one of the many famous faces who was "by Jeff's bedside" before his passing.

Johnny has turned to music recently (PA)

The pair also released an official music video for "This Is a Song for Miss Hedy Lamarr," the album's first single.

"It's an extraordinary honor to play and write music with Jeff, one of the true greats and someone I am now privileged enough to call my brother," Johnny said at the time.

Jeff was equally as complimentary of Johnny, saying: "I haven't had another creative partner like him for ages."

Johnny Depp and Sir Tom Jones lead mourners at guitarist Jeff Beck's funeral

"He was a major force on this record. I just hope people will take him seriously as a musician because it's a hard thing for some people to accept that Johnny Depp can sing rock and roll."

Jeff passed away at the age of 78 (PA)

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Jeff first rose to fame in 1965 when he replaced Eric Clapton as the guitarist in The Yardbirds.

He also featured in Mick Jagger's debut album She's the Boss as well as Ozzy Osbourne's latest album called Patient Number 9.

Jeff, who didn't have children, leaves behind his wife Sandra Beck.

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