Margo O’Donnell Admits She Hasn’t Spoken to Brother Daniel Since Their Mother’s Death in 2014 — “Things Are Not Good There”
Donegal, Ireland — In a candid and emotional interview, beloved country music singer Margo O’Donnell has revealed that she has not spoken to her younger brother, Daniel O’Donnell, since the passing of their mother, Julia O’Donnell, in 2014. The shocking revelation sheds light on a quiet family rift that has left fans saddened, especially given the siblings’ once famously close relationship.
Speaking to the Irish Mail on Sunday, Margo shared that “things are not good” between her and Daniel, describing their lack of contact as “circumstantial.” Despite her deep affection for her brother, she admitted that nearly a decade has passed without any meaningful communication.
“I don’t see Daniel at all,” Margo said honestly. “Things are not good there. It is circumstantial. It has been four years in May since Mam passed — that’s how long it has been since we spoke. That’s the way it is.”
Margo, who famously helped launch Daniel’s early music career, appeared reluctant to go into further detail but hinted that new people and changes in Daniel’s life may have contributed to the distance. “Sometimes when people come into your life, they change things,” she said gently. “But he is doing magnificently well, and he is my brother, and I love him dearly because he is a good man. I pray for them.”
The 67-year-old singer also revealed that the strain in the family extends beyond Daniel. She shared that her relationships with her other siblings — Kathleen, John, and James — have also changed since their mother’s death. “I don’t see them,” she said. “I’m sad about that, but I don’t. Things have changed a lot.”
Margo described how holidays, once filled with music and family gatherings, have taken on a quieter tone in recent years. “If I’m honest, it’s all changed,” she admitted. “This year, I’ll spend it with a couple of close friends in my own home. But I have a nephew in Armagh who will visit with his children, and I’ve a godchild, Jasmine, who comes to open presents that morning — she makes Christmas for me too.”
Known affectionately as “The Queen of Country in Ireland,” Margo has built her own remarkable career, inspiring countless artists, including her famous younger brother. Fans across Ireland have long admired the strong bond the O’Donnell family shared, particularly their shared faith and musical roots in Kincasslagh, County Donegal.
The news of their estrangement has touched many, as both Margo and Daniel have always represented warmth, family, and tradition in Irish culture. While Margo’s tone was wistful, she expressed no bitterness — only love and quiet hope for reconciliation in time.
“He’s still my brother,” she said softly. “And I’ll always love him. Families go through changes — sometimes you just have to keep them in your prayers.”
For now, Margo continues to focus on her music and close circle of friends while holding onto the faith that has guided her through life’s challenges. Her words — honest, emotional, and deeply human — remind fans that even those who bring light to others sometimes carry unseen burdens of their own.
And for admirers of both Margo and Daniel O’Donnell, there remains a quiet hope that someday, the music that once united them might bring them together again.