West End luminary and broadcasting favourite Michael Ball has shared the profoundly sad news with his fans and followers: his beloved mother, Ruth, has passed away.
The acclaimed singer and actor, a staple of British musical theatre, took to social media to announce her death, painting a picture of a remarkable woman who was the cornerstone of his family.
In a moving and deeply personal tribute posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ball described his mum as "wonderful, kind, and funny", words that only begin to capture the essence of the woman he so clearly adored. The post conveyed the immense weight of his loss, a sentiment that instantly resonated with his legion of supporters.
The announcement has prompted an immediate and overwhelming outpouring of love and support from across the entertainment industry and beyond. Fans, friends, and fellow performers have flooded his social media channels with messages of condolence and sympathy, sharing their own memories and offering comfort during this difficult time.
While the specific cause of death was not disclosed in his emotional post, the focus remains squarely on celebrating Ruth's life and the indelible mark she left on her son and those who knew her. Michael Ball's candid sharing of his grief has highlighted the close-knit bond they shared, a relationship he has often alluded to with affection throughout his decades in the public eye.
As one of the UK's most cherished entertainers, known for his powerful performances in shows like Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera, as well as his successful BBC Radio 2 show, Ball's personal loss is felt by many who consider him a part of their own families.
The thoughts of the nation are with Michael Ball and his family as they navigate this period of immense sorrow and remember an extraordinary woman.
