Catherine Zeta-Jones is in mourning following the death of her friend and family member, Bonnie Tyler, who passed away on July 8th at the age of 75. Tyler, renowned for her powerful anthems, including the iconic “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” was also Zeta-Jones’s cousin by marriage, as her husband Robert Sullivan is closely related to the actress.
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In a heartfelt tribute shared via Instagram on July 9, Zeta-Jones expressed her sadness at the news of Tyler’s passing. The 56-year-old actress wrote, “My heart is broken with the news that our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away.” She reflected on the significant role Tyler had in her life, recalling precious moments they shared together.
Zeta-Jones shared a nostalgic photograph of the two taken just before her wedding to Michael Douglas in 2000. The image captured a memory from a joyful occasion where Tyler performed for the guests, much to their delight. “She sang and rocked it at my wedding. An extraordinary woman with vocals to match,” Zeta-Jones reminisced, paying tribute to Tyler’s remarkable talent.
Describing her late cousin as “a one-of-a-kind artist,” Zeta-Jones added a touch of humour by highlighting Tyler’s entertaining personality. “She was one of the funniest people I ever met,” she stated. In a touching conclusion to her tribute, Zeta-Jones expressed love and support for Tyler’s family, especially her husband Robert, saying, “Sleep tight beautiful lady. We shall forever ‘Keep a Welcome in the Hillsides’ of Wales for you.”
Bonnie Tyler, whose real name was Gaynor Hopkins, had a long and celebrated marriage with Robert Sullivan, a businessman and former Olympian. The couple tied the knot in 1973 and remained devoted to one another for five decades. Their enduring relationship was well-known in both their personal lives and public appearances.
Tyler had previously recounted her experience of performing at Zeta-Jones’s wedding in an interview with the BBC back in 2001. She revealed that she sang “Total Eclipse of the Heart” around midnight, recounting amusing details about her preparations. “I like to have a drink, you know, but not before I sing,” she said, explaining how she refrained from indulging in the array of fine wines until after her performance, making up for it once she stepped off the stage.
The singer’s passing followed a period of serious health complications, beginning with an induced coma instituted after emergency intestinal surgery. On July 9, Tyler’s family released a statement announcing her death, conveying their heartache over the loss. “Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal,” they shared, requesting privacy as they coped with her demise.
In early June, her family had provided an update on Tyler’s health, noting that she had briefly emerged from her coma but remained in intensive care. “Although her condition is improving, it is a slow process,” they explained, alluding to the lingering effects of her illness. They expressed gratitude for the public’s good wishes, assuring fans that Tyler was aware of their support.
Bonnie Tyler leaves behind a strong legacy marked by her critically acclaimed music and heartfelt performances. As tributes pour in from across the globe, it is evident that her artistry and spirit touched the lives of many, including her cousin Catherine Zeta-Jones, who will forever cherish the memories they created together. In the wake of this loss, the entertainment industry and her numerous fans unite to honour the remarkable life of Bonnie Tyler.