*Britain’s Got Talent* star Will Read has passed away at the age of 51 after battling cancer.
Read, who gained fame as part of the comedy act The Showbears during the 2012 season of Britain’s Got Talent, died on August 7, with his brother and close friends by his side.
The singer and his fellow Showbears advanced to the live semi-finals and later returned to the show to perform alongside former judge David Walliams during the final as guest entertainers.
“Will, aged 51 years of Macclesfield, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, 7th August 2024,” reads his obituary notice (via *Metro*).
“Dearly loved son of Kate, much-loved brother of Tom, cherished brother-in-law of Marianne, and fabulous uncle of Jimmy and Liam.
“Will was an accomplished musician excelling in percussion, drums, and vocals. He toured with Gloria Estefan and cruised the world as a musical director during his successful career.
Britain’s Got Talent (Photo: Facebook)
“He will be greatly missed by all his family, many friends, and colleagues. A private family service has taken place, and a Celebration of Will’s Life will be held at a time and date to be announced.
“Donations in his memory may be sent to The Christie (Macclesfield) or Macmillan Cancer Support.”
In September of last year, Read shared with fans via Facebook that his cancer had returned and that the tumor was “inoperable and therefore non-curative.”
“Knowing that whatever happens, my time is limited, I have requested early retirement from work, so that I can spend as much time with family and friends as possible,” he wrote.
“I still intend on making the most of the time I have left. Luckily, I don’t have much of a ‘bucket list,’ as I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve many of my life goals and ambitions already.
“Don’t worry though, I’m sure I can think of a few more hijinks to keep y’all entertained for a few months yet…”
