Singer, author and TV personality Linda Nolan has died aged 65,following a 20-year battle with breast cancer.
The Irish popstress passed away in hospital in Blackpool, the North West town where many of us doubtless spent childhood summers watching Nolan and her sisters, better known collectively as The Nolan Sisters, share a stage with the likes of Russ Abbott, Les Dennis and Dustin Gee.
Linda’s agent Dermot McNamara said in a statement: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.
“She passed at around 10:20 am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless and made it so much more bearable.
“She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.
“Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
Linda’s equally famous sisters, Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59 were all at her bedside when she passed away took to Twitter to announce their sister’s passing:
It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of beloved Linda Nolan. She faced incurable cancer with courage, grace & determination, inspiring millions.
— The Nolans (@The_Nolans) January 15, 2025
Surrounded by family, she passed peacefully. A pop icon and beacon of hope, Linda will never be forgotten ❤️ pic.twitter.com/f1mUJTOzyP
Together, the sisters made The Nolans and sold more than 30 million records along with performing for President Gerald Ford and touring with Frank Sinatra. The sisters were a surprise smash hit in Japan in the 1980s, where they sold more than 12m records, according to urban legend more than The Beatles and Michael Jackson.
The showbiz world was quick to pay tribute to the star, who as recently as December 22 had appeared on the cover of The Mirror’s Notebook supplement:
Delighted to be on the cover of Notebook's Christmas issue, out today in @DailyMirror!
— Linda Nolan (@LindaNolan_) December 22, 2024
A very emotional interview and fabulous shoot at @ribbyhall 😍❄️❤️ pic.twitter.com/FkfPAcPdh5
RIP the beautiful Linda Nolan. My heart breaks that she has been taken at just 65 years. At least she is now with the love of her life Brian. Sleep well gorgeous xxx❤️ pic.twitter.com/elq24y9xZ7
— Paul Chuckle (@PaulChuckle2) January 15, 2025