Irene Thornton, Wife of Late AC/DC Frontman Bon Scott, Has Passed Away – Australia Mourns Loss on November 20, 2025
Australia is mourning the passing of Irene Thornton, the former wife of legendary AC/DC frontman Bon Scott, who died on November 20, 2025. Her death marks the loss of a woman who played a significant role in one of rock music’s most iconic eras while also shaping a life known for kindness, dignity, and quiet resilience. Irene’s passing has been met with heartfelt tributes from music historians, longtime AC/DC fans, and individuals whose lives were touched by her warmth and authenticity.
Irene became part of rock history through her relationship with Bon Scott, whom she met during his early years as a rising performer. Married in 1972, she witnessed firsthand the energy, challenges, and creative intensity that surrounded Scott as he transitioned toward becoming one of the most influential rock vocalists of all time. Although their marriage later ended, Irene remained an important figure in the narrative of AC/DC’s beginnings, offering insights and memories that helped preserve the human side of Scott’s legacy.
Her book, released years later, became an essential account for fans seeking a deeper look at Bon Scott’s life beyond the stage lights. Irene shared her experiences with honesty and tenderness, not to elevate herself, but to ensure the world understood Scott as a full person—a man shaped by passion, hardship, humor, and extraordinary talent. Her storytelling earned immense respect because she carried the rare ability to speak with both clarity and compassion.
Beyond her connection to rock history, Irene lived a life defined by quiet strength, steady love for her family, and a commitment to helping others. Friends describe her as warm and thoughtful, someone who greeted new people with openness and made them feel immediately comfortable. She was known for her empathy, measured perspective, and the calm way she approached difficult situations. Her integrity formed the foundation of every personal and professional relationship she nurtured throughout her life.
Those closest to her emphasize that Irene’s true legacy exists not only in her connection to an Australian music legend, but in the impact she made as a mother, partner, friend, and storyteller. She valued honesty, protected the people she loved, and stayed grounded despite her proximity to fame. Her ability to reflect on the past without bitterness demonstrated emotional wisdom that shaped how others understood both her journey and Scott’s.
Tributes across Australia reflect the deep affection many held for Irene. Fans have expressed gratitude for her willingness to share memories that preserved an essential piece of rock history. Music writers have acknowledged her as a pivotal voice in documenting Scott’s life. Friends and family mourn a woman who lived with dignity, humility, and compassion—qualities that guided her through every season of her life.
As her loved ones grieve, arrangements for memorial services are expected to be shared soon. Many anticipate that celebrations of her life will draw both family members and longtime admirers who feel a connection to the powerful history she helped preserve. The Australian music community continues to offer condolences, recognizing that her death marks the end of a chapter profoundly linked to the origins of AC/DC.
Although Irene Thornton is gone, her legacy remains deeply rooted in the stories she told, the people she loved, and the history she safeguarded. Her memory will endure through the lives she touched and the music history she helped shape, leaving Australia with gratitude for a life lived with sincerity, courage, and grace.