How is the theatre world remembering Ben Lewis? Tributes pour in following actor's death at 46

Australian actor Ben Lewis has passed away at 46 after fighting bowel cancer. The news was announced by his friend Todd Woodbridge on Instagram. Remembering Ben, Todd wrote:

"Ben was a star on stage as Phantom in Love Never Dies and In Phantom of the Opera on the West End.. more importantly he was one of the great humans, funny, caring and a wonderful mentor to all of the people he work with."

His passing has deeply saddened the theater world, with many sharing heartfelt tributes to honor the late actor and his talent.

Tributes pour in following the death of Ben Lewis

English composer and musical theatre producer Andrew Lloyd Webber wrote on social media:

"I first met Ben when he premiered the marvellous Australian production of Love Never Dies, in which he played the Phantom. After his huge personal success in the role, he came to London to play Phantom in the original show. His triumph in the role played a huge part in The Phantom of the Opera's continuing London run."

He also revealed that his son had passed away from the same illness, making the loss even more personal.

Musical theatre news group Musical Theatre Review wrote on X:

"We are deeply saddened to hear that acclaimed actor & singer Ben Lewis (The Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, Company & more) has died at the age of 46. His distinguished career left a lasting impact on the world of musical theatre. Our condolences to his family & friends."

British theatrical producer Cameron Mackintosh released a statement that read:

"Ben was a towering presence and a great company leader when he played the title role of the Phantom in his native Australia and then again at His Majesty's Theatre in London. Amongst his many other leading roles, Ben was especially impressive as the stoic, handsome long-suffering husband to Patti LuPone’s explosive vodka-stinger laced Joanne in the recent Company revival at the Gielgud Theatre."

It continued:

"Our hearts go out to his beloved wife, Melle, his family and friends both here and in Australia. The theatre has lost a very special and much loved talent far too early, in what would certainly have been a long and brilliant career"

News Editor at Collider Maggie Lovitt wrote:

"Gutted to hear about Ben Lewis. An utterly delightful and talented man lost far too soon. My heart breaks for his friends and family."

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Along with the theatre world, many personalities from other industries and his fans are also remembering Ben Lewis through tributes on social media.

To know more about Ben, read this: Who was Ben Lewis? 'Love Never Dies' star dies at 46

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