Phantom of the Opera Performer Passes at 46

The theater community is mourning the loss of Ben Lewis, a beloved West End performer best known for his roles in The Phantom

of the Opera and Love Never Dies. Admired for his extraordinary voice and generosity, he was remembered by

friends and colleagues as both a gifted artist and a compassionate mentor whose kindness touched many lives.

The news was shared by Australian TV host Todd Woodbridge, who called him “one of the greats.” Woodbridge

reminisced about holidays in Scotland, backstage visits at Her Majesty’s Theatre, and time together at Wimbledon. A GoFundMe page has

since been set up to support Lewis’s family, drawing heartfelt messages from fans and fellow performers across the globe.

Lewis, 46, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February 2024. Despite surgery and chemotherapy, the disease spread to his liver,

lungs, and pelvis. Born into a family of classically trained opera singers, he studied at the Royal College of Music and the

Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. His career spanned acclaimed roles in Urinetown, A Little Night Music, and Priscilla,

Queen of the Desert, and he earned the Judith Johnson Award for Love Never Dies. His legacy will live on through his unforgettable performances and the lives he inspired.