The global theater world is mourning the devastating loss of Ben Lewis, the renowned Australian actor best known for his iconic roles in The Phantom of the Opera and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies. Lewis died at the age of 46 after a courageous fight with bowel cancer—a battle he faced with dignity, resilience, and unwavering hope.
His death was confirmed on October 6, 2025, by longtime friend and Australian TV personality Todd Woodbridge, who paid tribute with a heartfelt message on Instagram. “Ben lit up the stage as the Phantom,” Woodbridge wrote. “But more than that, he was an extraordinary person—witty, kind, and an incredible mentor to so many.” His tribute sparked an outpouring of love and condolences from fans and colleagues around the world, underscoring the deep impact Ben had on those who knew him.
Woodbridge reflected on their decades-long friendship, recalling “holidays in Scotland, shared laughs backstage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, and cherished times at Wimbledon.” His words offered a touching glimpse into Ben’s life beyond the stage—a life marked by warmth, humor, and heartfelt connections.
Ben’s battle with cancer began in early 2024 when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bowel cancer that would later become untreatable. Despite undergoing major surgery and enduring months of chemotherapy, the illness eventually spread to his liver, lungs, and pelvis. Still, those closest to him say he met each challenge with extraordinary strength and optimism, never allowing the disease to define him. Even during treatment, Ben continued to sing and perform, finding solace in the art that had shaped his life.
