West End Star Ben Lewis Dies at 46 After Battle With Bowel Cancer
The theater world mourns Ben Lewis, best known for his roles in
The Phantom of the Opera and Love Never Dies, who passed away at 46 after a battle with bowel cancer.
Australian TV host Todd Woodbridge shared the news on Instagram,
calling him “one of the greats” and recalling his humor, kindness, and mentorship.
“Ben was a star on stage as Phantom… More importantly he was one of the great humans,” he wrote.
Lewis was diagnosed in February 2024.
Despite surgery and intensive chemotherapy, the aggressive cancer spread to his liver, lungs, and pelvis.
Born to a family of opera singers, he trained at the Royal College of Music and the
Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, starring in major productions in Sydney and London.
Ben was also the primary caregiver for his wife, Melle Stewart, who suffered a severe stroke in 2021.
His dedication to both family and theater leaves a lasting legacy.
