Kelli Wright-Laiho - the widow of Children of Bodom frontman Alexi Laiho - has thanked fans for their support in the wake of the musicians passing, saying she is “completely broken” by his death.

The acclaimed Finnish guitarist's death was confirmed with “great sadness” on January 4th.

41-year-old Laiho formed Bodom After Midnight with his former bandmate Daniel Freyberg last year after Children of Bodom announced their dissolution in 2019.

A statement from his former bandmates said Laiho had suffered from “long-term health issues” in his final years, with numerous musicians in the industry paying tribute to the metalhead.

Taking to Instagram to give her thanks to the fans, Kelli Wright-Laiho wrote:

“Thank you all so much for your beautiful energy and support. I’m taking time out to grieve our enormous loss with our immediate Finnish and Australian family.

“Understandably, as you are, we’re completely broken but wanted you to know, We love and appreciate you all so much.”

Leading tributes at the time of his death, Laiho’s sister said:

“We are all absolutely shocked and devastated. We ask for privacy and understanding during these hard times. My little brother’s funeral will take place privately.”

Children of Bodom released their acclaimed debut album Something Wild in 1997 and drew widespread praise for their unique brand of melodic death metal.

Laiho was considered to be one of the metal genre's greatest guitarist of all time.