George Veikoso dead: Baywatch star dies suddenly aged just 55 as tributes pour in

George 'Fiji' Veikoso, who co-wrote the iconic Baywatch: Hawaii theme song, has sadly died suddenly aged just 55. The reggae musician, who was born in Hawaii in 1970, died on Wednesday (July 23), with the Polynesian Music Network announcing the news with a tragic statement. It read: "It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we share the news that @f1j1 has passed away. A beautiful soul has been called home."

The message went on: "A life so full, so meaningful. Fiji was more than an artist. He was a movement, a voice for the people, a light in the dark. There was, and always will be, only one Fiji. His music wasn't just something we listened to. It was something we lived through. It was the soundtrack to our childhoods, our family parties, our car rides, our quiet nights, our celebrations, and our heartbreaks.

"There is a Fiji song in every playlist. He was the artist the entire household listened to. The one who brought generations together. A waymaker, a storyteller, a pillar of island music. His voice carried the weight of our stories, our culture, and our emotions, and his impact stretched far beyond the islands.

"Fiji inspired artists across the world. He opened doors and set a standard for what it meant to be timeless, soulful, and real. His presence was larger than life, but his spirit was always grounded in love, truth, and connection.

"Thank you, Fiji, for your gift. For your music, your heart, and your legacy. You gave us so much, and we will carry it with us forever. Rest in love to the GOAT. George 'Fiji' Veikoso, your song will never end."

Baywatch: Hawaii was filmed on the island between 1999 and 2001, with George helping to pen the theme tune after the release of his first album in 1994. He was also famed for starring in the Hollywood film Blue Crush in 2002 alongside Michelle Rodriguez and Kate Bosworth.

He was named the Best Pacific International Artist in 2014 and picked up a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 for contributions to Polynesian reggae.

Tributes have flooded in online, with one fan posting: "I don't want to believe it." Another echoed: "I am so lost for words. The whole PASIFIKA IS MOURNING FOR YOU. The KING, The G.O.A.T of island reggae music."