Phantom of the Opera Star Ben Lewis Dies at 46
International musical theater star Ben Lewis has passed away at the age of 46. His death was confirmed by close friend Todd Woodbridge, a well-known tennis star and TV presenter. The news was widely reported by various Australian media outlets.
Ben Lewis’s Career Highlights
Ben Lewis was renowned for his performances in major theater productions around the world. He gained fame for his role in the long-running West End production of The Phantom of the Opera. Additionally, Lewis portrayed the Phantom in the original Australian production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies, and he also starred in the filmed performance of the show, which is now available for home viewing.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Lewis received numerous accolades. Notably, he was nominated for a Helpmann Award and won the prestigious Judith Johnson Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical at the 2012 Sydney Theatre Awards.
- Key roles:
- Larry in the award-winning production of Company
- Participated in Forbidden Broadway at the Menier Chocolate Factory and in the West End
- Appeared in UK tours of Love Me Tender and The Bodyguard
- Starred in Australian productions such as Urinetown, Spamalot, A Little Night Music, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Personal Life and Health Challenges
In February 2024, Lewis received a diagnosis of bowel cancer, which marked a challenging period in his life. Throughout his illness, he took on the role of caregiver for his wife, Melle Stewart, who suffered a stroke in 2021. In light of their situation, a GoFundMe page was established to support her future care.
Ben Lewis will be remembered for his incredible talent and dedication to musical theater. His contributions to the arts will leave a lasting impact on audiences and the theater community.
