Linda Nolan dies age 65 following 20-year cancer battle with sisters by her side
TV personality and pop sensation Linda Nolan has died aged 65 after a battle with secondary breast cancer, that lasted more than two decades, surrounded by her famous sisters
Beloved singer and television favourite Linda Nolan has passed away at 65 after a long battle with secondary breast cancer. The much-loved singer died with her famous sisters by her side, and sources said her final hours were filled with "love and comfort." In an official statement to the Mirror, her agent Dermot McNamara said: "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 10:20am 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 is immense, not only through her music and entertainment feats but also as a source of hope and courage, touching lives by sharing her own struggles to foster awareness and uplift spirits. Rest in peace, Linda; your incredible spirit will be sorely missed but eternally remembered", reports the Mirror.
Linda shot to fame in the 70s as part of The Nolans
The family have requested privacy regarding the hospital's details but have confirmed they will arrange a public memorial for the cherished star. Linda's fans, who loyally followed her candid cancer journey through her weekly Mirror column, will be stunned by the news of her passing.
Just last week, Linda shared with the Mirror that she felt more upbeat after a suspected "bout of flu" over the holiday period. However, her health rapidly declined when she was admitted to the hospital with breathing issues on Saturday and double pneumonia was diagnosed.
Her already vulnerable condition, aggravated by secondary breast cancer which had spread to her brain, deteriorated quickly. In the early hours of Tuesday, her sisters—Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59—rushed to her side as doctors commenced end-of-life care.
In 2017, she was told the cancer had returned to her hip (Image: OK!/David Cummings)
They remained with her, holding vigil until her final moments. Her agent commemorated Linda's eclectic career; she was not just a talented singer but also starred in West End shows, became a beloved TV personality, engaged in charity work, penned books, and was a pivotal part of The Nolans.
The group sold over 30 million records, graced a performance for President Gerald Ford, and even toured with Frank Sinatra.
The statement included: "As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success, touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I'm In The Mood for Dancing. Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment."
Linda's hope for 2025 was to be here with her family (Image: OK!/David Cummings)
"Linda also dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Ireland and Samaritans, amongst countless others. Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy."
Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and was given the all-clear in 2011. But in 2017 - four years after the death of her sister Bernie, aged 52 in 2013 - Linda was told the disease had returned after tumours were found in her hip bone and pelvis.
Like Bernie, she was diagnosed with incurable secondary breast cancer but remained determined to make the most of the time she had left.
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