Linda Nolan, beloved singer from the iconic Irish pop group The Nolans, has died at the age of 65, following a 20-year battle with cancer.
Her passing was announced on Wednesday, in a statement shared on The Nolans' official X (formerly Twitter) account.
“It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of beloved Linda Nolan. She faced incurable cancer with courage, grace & determination, inspiring millions,” the statement read. “Surrounded by family, she passed peacefully. A pop icon and beacon of hope, Linda will never be forgotten .”
It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of beloved Linda Nolan. She faced incurable cancer with courage, grace & determination, inspiring millions.
— The Nolans (@The_Nolans) January 15, 2025
Surrounded by family, she passed peacefully. A pop icon and beacon of hope, Linda will never be forgotten ❤️ pic.twitter.com/f1mUJTOzyP
Linda rose to fame in the 1970s alongside her sisters Coleen, Maureen, Bernie, Denise, and Anne as part of The Nolans.
The group enjoyed worldwide success with hits such as the disco anthem "I’m in the Mood for Dancing". Their music brought joy to fans across generations, cementing their place in pop history.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, Linda’s journey was marked by both hope and heartbreak.
She was declared cancer-free in 2011 but faced a devastating recurrence in 2017, when she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer that initially affected her hip and pelvis.
In 2020, the cancer spread to her liver, and by 2023, it had advanced to her brain.
Despite these challenges, Linda remained a source of resilience, even sharing in December 2023 that her brain tumours had shrunk following treatment.
Her sister, Coleen Nolan, paid an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing: “Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour, and laughter were infectious. Her presence could light up any room. While we will miss her more than words can express, we take solace in the love and warmth she shared with all of us. Rest in peace, Linda. You will forever be in our hearts. Love you, Coleen xxx.”
Tributes poured in from friends, fans, and colleagues.
Television presenter Tommy Cannon shared his grief, saying, “I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Linda Nolan. I had the pleasure of working with her on so many occasions, and she was always a joy – full of warmth and love. My thoughts and love are with the Nolan girls and the whole family.”
I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Linda Nolan. I had the pleasure of working with her on so many occasions, and she was always a joy – full of warmth and love. My thoughts and love are with the Nolan girls and the whole family. ❤️
— Tommy Cannon (@TheTommyCannon) January 15, 2025
Broadcaster Terry Christian also expressed his condolences, writing: “R.I.P Linda Nolan. Met most of the Nolan sisters back in the day – all fantastic women.”
R.I.P Linda Nolan. Met most of the Nolan sisters back in day - all fantastic women .
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Linda spent much of her childhood in Blackpool, England, where her family relocated.
As part of The Nolans, she helped sell over 30 million records worldwide, and their glittering performances epitomised the glamour of 1980s pop music.
Outside of music, Linda enjoyed success as a solo artist and theatre performer, starring in productions such as "Blood Brothers". Her memoir, "From My Heart", offered an intimate look at her life in the spotlight and her battle with cancer, resonating deeply with readers.
IOL