West End star Ben Lewis, known for his role in The Phantom of the Opera, has passed away at the age of 46. The talented Australian actor lost his battle with bowel cancer in Sydney. The sad news was confirmed on Monday, October 6, by close friend and Australian TV host Todd Woodbridge, who described Lewis as a remarkable talent and an even better human being.
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Lewis had a successful career on stage, appearing in various productions across Australia and the UK. However, he is perhaps best known for his portrayal of the lead role in The Phantom of the Opera in the West End from 2017 to 2018. Woodbridge paid tribute to Lewis on Instagram, reminiscing about their cherished moments together and highlighting Lewis’s compassionate and humorous nature. The loss of Lewis has deeply impacted not only his family and friends but also the entertainment industry as a whole.
Diagnosed with bowel cancer in February 2024, Lewis faced an incurable form of the disease. A GoFundMe account was set up to support his family during this challenging time. Born into a family of opera singers, Lewis had a strong musical background and studied vocal performance at prestigious institutions in London and Australia. Throughout the 2000s, he showcased his talent in various productions, including Urinetown, A Little Night Music, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in Sydney.
In 2011, Lewis took on the lead role in the original Australian production of Love Never Dies, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. His performance garnered critical acclaim, leading to him reprising the iconic character in The Phantom of the Opera on London’s West End in 2017 and 2018. Lewis’s contributions to the theatre industry were celebrated, with accolades such as the Judith Johnson Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical at the 2012 Sydney Theatre Awards for his role in Love Never Dies.
Lewis leaves behind his wife, Australian actress Melle Stewart, and an extended family who are mourning his untimely passing. His legacy in the world of theatre and his impact on those who had the privilege of working with him will endure. The outpouring of love and tributes following his death is a testament to the profound influence he had on his colleagues and audiences alike.
The entertainment community has been shaken by the loss of Ben Lewis, with many reflecting on his talent and warm personality. As his memory lives on through his work and the lives he touched, the industry mourns the passing of a true star. Our thoughts are with Lewis’s loved ones during this difficult time as they navigate the grief of his absence.
In the wake of this tragic loss, fans and fellow performers alike have come together to honour and remember Ben Lewis’s contributions to the world of theatre. The impact of his performances, both on stage and screen, will be felt for years to come, serving as a reminder of his undeniable talent and the light he brought into the lives of those around him. May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire future generations of performers.