Singer Bonnie Tyler, best known for hits including Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding on for a Hero, has died at the age of 75.
The Welsh musician passed away "unexpectedly" in a hospital in Portugal, according to a statement posted on her website.
The statement read: "Bonnie's family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for."
In May, the It's a Heartache hitmaker was placed into an induced coma after having emergency intestinal surgery in a hospital near her home in Faro, Portugal.
In a post shared to her 240,000 followers on Instagram, it said: "We are very sorry to announce that Bonnie has been admitted to hospital in Faro, Portugal, where she has a home, for emergency intestinal surgery.
"The surgery went well and she is now recuperating.
"We know that all of her family, friends and fans will be concerned about this news and will be wishing her well for a full and swift recovery."
In a second update, just two days later, it was announced that Bonnie had been put into an induced coma to "aid her recovery".
© Getty ImagesIn June, Bonnie's team shared that the star was no longer in a coma but remained "very unwell and in intensive care in hospital in Portugal."
"Although her condition is improving it is a slow process," a post on her website read. "Her doctors remain confident that she will make a good recovery but it is going to take time."
© GettyBonnie is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan.
Tributes pour in
Broadcaster Carol Vorderman described Bonnie as a "legend" in their home country Wales in a video posted to Instagram.
"I'm a Welsh woman and believe me, in Wales, Bonnie Tyler is regarded as a legend – particularly amongst women," said the former Countdown star. "She was extraordinary. I met her a number of times, she was very real. She was always laughing, was asking questions, always having a good time. It’s difficult to explain if you don’t live in Wales that Bonnie represented something to us, and she will be very, very sorely missed."
Mezzo-soprano singer Katherine Jenkins also paid tribute. "Heartbroken to hear of the passing of the incredible Bonnie Tyler," the Welsh performer wrote on Instagram.
"A true Welsh legend whose unmistakable voice inspired generations and put Wales on the world stage with such power, passion and authenticity. Growing up in the same part of the world as Bonnie, makes this loss feel especially close to home. She showed so many of us what was possible so today, we’re all holding out for a hero… and saying goodbye to one of our very own," she continued, adding: "Rest peacefully, Bonnie. Your music, your spirit and your legacy will live on forever."
Meanwhile, rocker Bryan Adams, remembered Bonnie in a post on X. He wrote: "She had such a great voice and I’ll always be grateful of her beautiful version of Straight From The Heart. Thanks Bonnie. RIP."
Bonnie's career
Bonnie, whose real name is Gaynor Hopkins, skyrocketed to international fame in the 1980s with the release of her single Total Eclipse Of The Heart, which shot to the top of the charts both in the UK and US.
Bonnie has released a number of hit songs over the years, including Holding Out For A Hero, It’s A Heartache and If You Were A Woman (And I Was A Man).
© RedfernsThe Grammy-nominated singer was due to tour Europe later this year to mark 50 years since the release of her 1976 hit, Lost In France. She was also due to perform in shows across the UK.
The Welsh power ballad singer represented the UK in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo, Sweden, with the song Believe In Me. She finished in 19th place.
Bonnie was also made an MBE in 2023 for her services to music, after being named in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.
