The drummer from Sting’s supporting act, The Christians, suddenly collapsed while at the On The Waterfront festival on Sunday evening
Sting’s return to Liverpool recently took a sombre turn when the drummer from his support act, The Christians, collapsed mid-performance. The frontman, Garry Christian, cried out for help when drummer Lionel Duke collapsed at the On The Waterfront festival on Sunday.
A privacy screen was soon put up around him before he was rushed off the stage, checked by the onsite medical staff, and taken to the hospital. The band’s manager, Emma Bridget, revealed he was doing okay, despite initially not having a pulse, and was receiving medical attention. “We’re really hoping he is going to make it. He didn’t have a pulse, he’s got one now, we think. Thank you so much,” she said.
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“I’m just so sorry because Garry loves Liverpool and he wanted to put on the show of his life and we’re really devastated but thank you so much.”
Two days after the shock medical emergency, The Christians took to their Facebook page to share an update with a picture of Lionel recovering in hospital.
In the picture, Lional was wearing a hospital gown and was connected to IV drips as he smiled for the camera from his seat. Garry sat close by with his arm placed around the drummer.
“He made it,” they captioned the post and added a flexing emoji. Fans rushed to the comment section to share their support for Lionel and the band.
“I believe in Miracles and take into account amazing medical intervention. Wishing you a speedy recovery,” one user said and another added: “So pleased to see you on the mend. We was there on Sunday and haven’t stopped thinking about you.”
One fan commented: “I can’t tell you how happy this photo makes me. Go Lionel!” and one added: “Brilliant news! Well done to all who helped save him.”
Despite the shock, The Christians reportedly encouraged Sting to proceed with his headline set, offering their full support.
When he eventually appeared on stage, Sting made sure to acknowledge what had happened, opening his performance with a few quiet, heartfelt words about the drummer’s condition: “The drummer in the band before is OK. He’s in hospital. All of us are praying he’s going to be fine. Our thoughts are with him.”
It was a rare emotional moment for the legendary artist, whose appearance marked his first performance in Liverpool since 1979.
Reflecting on the city’s deep musical legacy and its connection to his own roots, the former Police frontman added: “I apologise. I don’t know what kept me. I’m happy to be in this historic music city. The most historic music city in the world for obvious reasons.”
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