Ben Lewis, the acclaimed West End star celebrated for his unforgettable performances in The Phantom of the Opera and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Love Never Dies, has passed away at the age of 46. The Australian actor succumbed to a battle with bowel cancer, leaving fans, colleagues, and the theater community heartbroken.
“One of the greats”
The devastating news was shared on Instagram on Monday, October 6, by his friend and Australian TV host Todd Woodbridge, who expressed his sorrow and described Lewis as “one of the greats.”
“Ben was a star on stage as the Phantom…in Phantom of the Opera on the West End,” Woodbridge wrote. “But more importantly, he was one of the great humans — funny, caring, and a wonderful mentor to all the people he worked with.”
Woodbridge also recalled the personal moments they shared, painting a vivid picture of their friendship: “So many fond memories of holidays together in Scotland, visiting the dressing rooms of Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, to times spent at Wimbledon. Ben had an infectious laughter and a generosity of spirit that made everyone around him feel at ease.” He concluded, “Sending our love to all the family tonight. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the honor to know him.”
Diagnosed in 2024
Lewis received his devastating diagnosis of bowel cancer in February 2024, a condition that was quickly deemed incurable, according to a GoFundMe page set up to support his family during the difficult time.
After the diagnosis, Ben underwent major surgery to remove the primary tumor and began an intensive chemotherapy regimen. Despite his immense determination and resilience, the cancer proved aggressive and resistant to treatment.
By April, medical scans revealed that the disease had spread extensively to his liver, lungs, and pelvis. The tumors were too numerous to be surgically removed or effectively treated with radiation, leaving few options for his medical team.
A life steeped in music and theater
Born into a family of classically trained opera singers in London, Ben’s life was immersed in music and performance from an early age. He studied vocal performance at London’s Royal College of Music and later refined his craft at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
His early stage career in Sydney included roles in productions such as Urinetown, A Little Night Music, and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, where he began to gain recognition for his commanding stage presence and versatility.
In 2011, Lewis starred in the original Australian production of Love Never Dies, the sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. He later reprised the iconic Phantom role in London’s West End in 2017 and 2018, solidifying his reputation as one of the definitive performers of the character. For his work in Love Never Dies, he was honored with the Judith Johnson Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Sydney Theatre Awards. The production was eventually filmed by Universal, preserving his performance for posterity.
Primary caregiver and unwavering support
Beyond his extraordinary career, what made Ben Lewis’s story particularly touching was his role as the primary caregiver for his beloved wife, Australian actress Melle Stewart. In 2021, when Ben was just 43 years old, Melle suffered a severe stroke after receiving the Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The stroke left her hospitalized for nearly nine months and facing a long and challenging rehabilitation.
From the moment of her stroke, Ben devoted himself entirely to Melle’s care, supporting her through every stage of recovery. His dedication and love were unwavering, as he navigated the difficult realities of being both a leading actor and a devoted husband. Friends and family often remarked on his quiet strength and patience during this time, seeing firsthand how much he sacrificed to ensure Melle’s well-being.
A legacy that will endure
Ben Lewis leaves behind not only his wife, Melle Stewart, but also a wide circle of family, friends, and colleagues who were inspired by his talent, generosity, and warmth. His performances on the West End and across Australia have left an indelible mark on audiences, fellow performers, and the musical theater community.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Ben’s legacy continues through the countless people he touched, both on stage and off. His portrayals of the Phantom and other beloved roles will live on in recordings, memories, and the hearts of those who experienced his artistry.
Tributes poured in from around the world, reflecting on his talent, mentorship, and character. “He wasn’t just a performer — he was a friend, a teacher, a light in everyone’s life,” one colleague wrote. “Ben had a way of making you feel seen, valued, and inspired.”
As the theater world grieves, it is clear that Ben Lewis’s influence will endure. His devotion to his craft, his compassion for others, and his unbreakable love for his wife define a life that, though far too short, was remarkable in every sense.
Ben Lewis’s story is one of extraordinary talent, unwavering love, and resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. His voice, presence, and heart will continue to resonate with all who knew him, and for generations of theater lovers who were fortunate enough to witness his brilliance.
Though he is gone too soon, the mark Ben left on the stage and in the lives of those around him will never fade. His performances, his mentorship, and his legacy of humanity and compassion will ensure that his memory lives on, inspiring countless others to pursue their passions with courage, love, and dedication.