British music icon Paul Hardcastle has shared heartbreaking details of his final conversation with his son, Paul Hardcastle Jnr, just minutes before the 35-year-old died in a motorcycle accident.
A Father's Final Words
The 68-year-old singer, best known for his 1985 chart-topping hit '19', posted an emotional video online last week confirming the tragic death of his son. He described Paul Jnr as a 'lovely son' and a talented musician, following in his father's footsteps as a British DJ and saxophonist.
Hardcastle explained that his son was attempting to reach the family home to collect a saxophone for a trip to Greece, having already missed a flight. With his car impounded two days earlier due to a punctured tyre, Paul Jnr was using a scrambler bike with a torch attached to the front.
'He went like, "I'll get back to you in five minutes." He didn't get back to me in five minutes,' the devastated father revealed in the raw footage.
A Devastating Warning to Others
In his video, Hardcastle issued a powerful plea to others, urging them to reconsider taking unnecessary risks. 'I've lost a lovely son, and he's lost his life, and could have easily all been avoided,' he stated.
He recounted the moment police officers arrived at his door to deliver the devastating news. 'They said, "Do you mind if we come in? We've got some news." I said, "OK." [They replied,] "We're very, very, very sorry to tell you that your son's been involved in an accident and he's passed away."'
Hardcastle emphasised the profound impact of that moment: 'When you hear that, wow, nothing's worth doing it for. So anyone out there thinking along them lines, don't bother. It's just not worth it. Cancel the gig. Do something else.'
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
The composer has received an outpouring of support since sharing his story. Fans and followers have flooded social media with messages of condolence, praising his bravery for speaking out to prevent similar tragedies.
One user commented on his strength in sharing the story to spread awareness, while another offered their thoughts during this difficult time.
Metropolitan Police confirmed that the driver of a van involved in the collision was arrested and has since been released under investigation.
Paul Hardcastle, who married his wife Dolores Baker in 1985, is also father to singer Maxine Hardcastle. He ended his emotional tribute with the words: 'So rest in peace, Paul Jr, love, Dad.'
