How are stars reacting to Joan Templeman's passing? Celebrities flood Richard Branson with love after his wife dies at 80

2016 Pre-GRAMMY Gala And Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Irving Azoff - Arrivals - Source: Getty
2016 Pre-GRAMMY Gala And Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Irving Azoff - Arrivals - Source: Getty

Love and heartfelt messages poured in for Richard Branson on Tuesday, after the billionaire revealed the death of his wife, Joan Templeman, his partner and guiding light for half a century.

After the business mogul confirmed through social media that his wife had passed away at the age of 80, the couple's famous friends sent earnest messages and deep condolences in the comments.

Jennifer Lopez left several white heart emojis, while award-winning journalist, Christina Binkley, commented with a broken heart emoji:

"Heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones. May your happy memories comfort you."

The Vampire Diaries actor, Ian Somerhalder, noted his memories of Joan Templeman, saying:

"Thinking of you, sir, Richard. She was so thoughtful and kind when I got to spend time with her on Necker Island. What an unimaginable loss, brother. Sending you and the family nothing but love."

Paris Hilton wrote to Richard Branson:

"So sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family so much love."

"Pocketful of Sunshine" hitmaker Natasha Bedingfield also commented:

"I’m so sorry for you and dear Holly and fam. sending love."

Richard Branson's sister, Vanessa, added:

"A mighty lady indeed…behind every great man…xxx."

"Torn" songstress Natalie Imbruglia also offered her sincere feelings:

"I’m so sorry Richard… Heartbroken… Joan.. a shining light in this world. She made everyone feel so special.. Sending so much love to you all at this difficult time."

Van Jones, CNN journalist, lamented Templeman's death:

"She was always so kind to me and everyone. What a loss."

TV Host Andrea Minski shared her deep condolences:

"I’m so sorry my friend .. I’m sending you a hug straight to your soul. I really loved your wife. Every year at Necker she shared the best mom advice with me, and I’ll never forget our conversations over champagne. Thinking of you and your family and sending you all my love and strength."

Joan Templeman is survived by her husband, Richard Branson; their daughter, Holly Branson; and their son, Sam Branson.


Richard Branson mourns death of Joan Templeman, his partner of 50 years

On Nov. 25, Richard Branson announced the passing of his wife, Joan Templeman. She was 80.

The Virgin founder took to Instagram to express his grief, writing:

"Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away. She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for."

The business icon continued:

"She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world. Love you forever, Joan x"
The Boodles Boxing Ball 2013 - Source: Getty
The Boodles Boxing Ball 2013 - Source: Getty

Richard Branson and Joan Templeman had been together for 50 years after they first met in London while she worked in a bric-a-brac shop. The mogul confessed on his blog in 2020 that he instantaneously fell for his would-be life partner, adding:

"I often make up my mind about someone within 30 seconds of meeting them, and I fell for Joan almost from the moment I saw her. Joan was a down-to-earth Scottish lady, and I quickly realised she wouldn’t be impressed by my usual antics.

The couple tied the knot in 1989. They welcomed three children together: Holly, Sam, and Clare Sarah, who sadly passed away at only 4 days old.

READ: What is Richard Branson's net worth? Business mogul's fortune spotlighted as Necker Island tragedy unfolds

Edited by Gladys Altamarino