A musical theater star is gone too soon.
Ben Lewis, a 46-year-old Australian actor best known for playing the Phantom in the West End production of *Phantom of the Opera* from 2017 to 2018, has passed away after fighting bowel cancer. The news was shared by his friend, Todd Woodbridge.
Todd announced on Instagram on October 6th that Ben Lewis had passed away. He described Lewis as a very close friend and noted that the Australian musical theatre community had also lost a remarkably talented performer, and that he died too young.
Sending his condolences to Ben’s family, Todd shared that Ben was not only a kind and funny person, but also a fantastic mentor to his colleagues. He fondly remembered many happy times together, including holidays in Scotland, visits to Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, and days spent at Wimbledon.
In February 2024, actor Ben, known for his role in the 2012 film *Love Never Dies*, the sequel to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s *Phantom*, received a shocking diagnosis: bowel cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes and liver. He hadn’t experienced any symptoms beforehand. Despite undergoing several surgeries and chemotherapy treatments, the cancer unfortunately spread further to his lungs and pelvis, and doctors determined it was incurable, according to a GoFundMe campaign.
Even while fighting cancer, Ben cared for his wife, Melle Stewart, who had a stroke in 2021. According to a fundraising page, he focused all his energy on helping her recover, even as his own health worsened.
Ben shared an update on the GoFundMe page saying that he and Melle were deeply touched by the incredible support they’ve received. He especially praised his wife’s strength and resilience, explaining that she’s taught him the value of taking things one day at a time, staying focused on the present, and appreciating their wonderful family and friends.
He expressed gratitude to his family, wherever they may be, calling them his inspiration, source of comfort, and happiness. He emphasized that their support was essential and he couldn’t have achieved anything without them.
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2025-10-07 02:17