Linda Nolan: Singer dies at 65, two decades after cancer diagnosis

Singer Linda Nolan, a member of pop group The Nolans, has died aged 65, two decades after being diagnosed with cancer.

Nolan found fame in the 1970s with sisters Colleen, Maureen, Bernie, Denise and Anne, and scored hits including the 1980 disco classic I’m in the Mood for Dancing.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and was given the all-clear in 2011, but was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017. It spread and was on his mind until 2023.

TV presenter Colin Nolan said he was “absolutely devastated” by his sister’s death, describing Linda as “a beacon of love, kindness and strength”.

“His wit, humor and laughter were contagious, his presence could light up any room.” Colin said in his tribute on Instagram.

“Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.”

The Nolan Sisters became the first Irish act to sell over a million records worldwide, and have sold over 30 million records in total.

His other hits include Gotta Pull Myself Together and Attention To Me.

Nolan left the group in 1983, but later reformed with her sisters for several comeback performances.

Loose Women presenter Christine Lampard announced Nolan’s death on Wednesday’s episode of the ITV daytime show, describing it as “very sad news”.

Co-panelist Nadia Swala said it was a “terrible shock” and said the show’s team “sends our love”.

Nolan has appeared on the program several times, and sister Colleen is a regular panellist.

Linda also appeared in the West End production of Blood Brothers, was a columnist for the Daily Mirror and wrote a best-selling memoir.

A statement posted on the Nolan Sisters’ account on X said Linda “faced an incurable cancer with courage, grace and determination, touching millions”.

Entertainer Tommy Cannon of the duo Cannon and Ball, He said he was “heartbroken” by Nolan’s death..

“I had the pleasure of working with her on many occasions, and she was always a joy – full of warmth and love. My thoughts and love are with the Nolan girls and the entire family,” she posted on X. .

Bucks phase singer Cheryl Baker said Nolan had “the most incredible voice, the worst sense of humor, [she said] Such a great talent”.

TV presenter Terry Christian posted: “RIP Linda Nolan. Met most of the Nolan sisters back in the day – all wonderful women.”

Nolan’s agent, Dermot McNamara, announced his death “with deep sadness” in a statement on Wednesday, adding that Nolan was “surrounded by his devoted family”.

“Over the weekend, Linda was taken by ambulance to Blackpool Victoria Hospital and admitted with double pneumonia. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, she slipped into a coma and went into end-of-life care. , surrounded by his devoted family.

“At around 10.20am on Wednesday 15th January, she passed peacefully at her bedside with her beloved siblings, ensuring that she passed away in love and peace during her final moments at the age of 65. hug

“The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless and made it so much more bearable.”

“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 greatly missed, but never forgotten.”

It raised more than £20m for charities including Breast Cancer Now, the Irish Cancer Society and the Samaritans.

Nolan’s sister Anne, with whom he co-starred in the TV series The Nolans Go Cruising, was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time in 2020 and is now cancer-free.

Another sister, Colleen, revealed that she was diagnosed with skin cancer last year, and has been using chemotherapy creams to treat it.

Her sister Bernie died of breast cancer in 2013 at the age of 52.