Australian stage star Ben Lewis dies aged 46 after bowel cancer battle
Australian theatre communities are mourning the loss of Ben Lewis, a beloved performer best known for his striking portrayals in Phantom of the Opera and its sequel Love Never Dies. The 46-year-old actor passed away after a diagnosed battle with bowel cancer, a development that comes amid a period of significant hardship for his family.
Two tragedies in one family
Ben Lewis’s passing represents the second heavy blow for his wife, actress Melle Stewart. Stewart survived a life-threatening stroke during the COVID-19 era, an event linked to a vaccine-related complication in the couple’s story. The couple had relocated from London to Brisbane as they navigated these challenges, leaving behind thriving careers for a quieter life in Australia.
A tribute from the theatre world
Prominent figures in theatre have extended condolences. Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, composer of Phantom, offered heartfelt sympathy and stressed that Lewis would be deeply missed by friends and fans around the world. Lloyd Webber also spoke of a personal connection, noting the shared experience of loss in his own family due to cancer.
The family’s public update
News of Lewis’s death was announced by his sister-in-law, Christina O’Neill, who wrote on social media that Ben had passed away with his wife by his side. Earlier updates from the family had detailed a challenging cancer journey: doctors diagnosed bowel cancer with no early symptoms, followed by surgery, intensive chemotherapy, and subsequent spread to the liver, lungs, and pelvis. The family also explained that the cancer was deemed incurable, underscoring the emotional toll on both Ben and Melle.
A life dedicated to performance and resilience
Beyond the stage, Lewis and Stewart had become public figures who publicly discussed their experiences with vaccination and healthcare, balancing advocacy with personal tragedy. Their story highlighted the complexities of illness, caregiving, and resilience, with Lewis often speaking about staying present and grateful for family and friends.
What comes next for fans and the community
Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow performers, who remembered Lewis for his artistry and warmth. The legacy of his work on both West End and Australian stages continues to inspire aspiring actors and musicians who followed his performances. As the theatre community processes this loss, memorials and fundraisers that previously supported Melle Stewart remain a reminder of the couple’s public journey through hardship.
In reflecting on the life of a performer who brought drama and emotion to the stage, many will remember Lewis as a fearless artist whose career bridged continents and captivated audiences with his command of the Phantom’s demanding role. The theatre world will long hold his memory as a testament to talent, perseverance, and the personal sacrifices that accompany a life in the performing arts.
