Keith Duffy ‘went on a downward spiral’ before being rushed to hospital says Boyzone’s Ronan Keating

Ronan Keating has given fans an update on Keith Duffy, revealing his Boyzone bandmate went on a “downward spiral” within hours.

Duffy, 44, was rushed to hospital ahead of the band’s gig in Bangkok, Thailand on Wednesday night leaving Keating, Shane Lynch and Mikey Graham to perform as a three piece.

Keating said they have no idea what caused him to fall ill, saying they initially suspected it was food poisoning.

“He took ill before the show,” he told Magic Breakfast with Ronan & Harriet. “He just went on a downward spiral. He came to the gig and he had a really high temperature. The doctors arrived at the gig and they said it’s not possible to go on.

“We assumed it was food poisoning but there may be something else going on. We’re waiting to hear back on the blood tests or whether or not he can travel.”

Keating said he hasn’t spoken to Duffy, who is being comforted by his wife Lisa, since leaving Thailand for the Australian leg of their 25th anniversary tour.

Keating said it was “hilarious” performing as a three piece as he had to take on Duffy’s vocals – something he admitted to not knowing.

“We had considered certain things but not others. I had to take some of Keith’s vocals and I didn’t know the words. I looked to Shane and handed the mic out to the audience and hoped they’d sing along.”

Duffy’s hospitalisation was announced on the band’s official Twitter account in which they told fans he had “been admitted to hospital on the advice of the local medical team”.

“Our brother will be back on his feet as soon as possible and we thank you for all your wonderful support in the meantime,” they wrote.

Boyzone are currently on their Thank You and Goodnight tour which kicked off on January 23.