The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid tribute to singer Bonnie Tyler, describing her as a “proud Welsh icon” following her death at the age of 75. Tyler died on Wednesday night, months after being treated in intensive care and placed in an induced coma following emergency intestinal surgery.
A post on William and Kate’s joint Kensington Palace account said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bonnie Tyler. A proud Welsh icon, her extraordinary voice and unforgettable music touched millions around the world and will continue to inspire generations to come. Our thoughts are with her husband, family, friends and all who loved her. Diolch am y gerddoriaeth (thank you for the music).”
Tyler’s MBE and Welsh Legacy
Tyler was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by the Prince of Wales in 2023 for services to music. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Chicago star Catherine Zeta-Jones said her “heart is broken” after the Total Eclipse Of The Heart singer’s death. Zeta-Jones, 56, said Tyler was a big part of her life after marrying her cousin Robert Sullivan and paid a heartfelt tribute to the Welsh singer, whose real name was Gaynor Hopkins.
The actress shared a photograph of the pair together on Instagram which was taken the night before her wedding. She said: “An extraordinary woman with vocals to match. A one of kind artist, who so easily could have been a comedian because she was one of the funniest people I ever met. Thank you Bonnie for the joy you brought so many. Sleep tight beautiful lady. We shall forever ‘Keep A Welcome In The Hillsides’ of Wales for you. Sending my love to Robert and the family.”
Family Statement and International Tributes
A statement on the singer’s official website said her family and team were “heartbroken” after she “unexpectedly passed away” on Wednesday night in a hospital in Portugal, where she was being treated near her home in Faro.
Zeta-Jones was among the stars who paid tribute, including Sir Cliff Richard, Sir Rod Stewart, and rockstar Bryan Adams. Sir Cliff, who sang a duet with Tyler on the 2019 song Taking Control, said she was a “wonderful friend gone too soon” in a post shared on Facebook. He added: “Bonnie’s infectious zest for life entertained so many around the world, and to be a good friend to all, including me. It is shocking news to wake up to this morning and I send my love to her family at this very sad time.”
Upcoming Performances and Political Tributes
Tyler was due to perform at the Sunshine Festival in Worcester this summer, along with a number of European dates, and was also booked to perform at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on December 17.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute to the singer, describing her as “one of Britain’s greatest recording artists”. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “An iconic figure, she leaves behind a catalogue of music – from Total Eclipse Of The Heart to Holding Out For A Hero – which continues to touch lives, flood dance floors and fill karaoke booths.” He added: “The Prime Minister’s thoughts are very much with her friends and family.”
Career Highlights and Chart Success
The singer achieved international fame in the 1980s with the release of Total Eclipse Of The Heart, which shot to the top of the charts in the UK and the US. Faster Than The Speed of Night, the album featuring the smash-hit track, was also a chart-topping success and landed the singer her only UK number one album.
Recognisable for her husky voice, Tyler released many other 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).
Welsh First Minister and Broadcaster Tributes
Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth led tributes on Thursday and said Wales had “lost a true icon”. He posted: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bonnie Tyler. Wales has lost a true icon, whose music brought joy to so many. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and fans across the world.”
She represented the UK in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo, Sweden, with the song Believe In Me, finishing in 19th place.
Welsh broadcaster Carol Vorderman also paid tribute, writing: “I’m so very sorry to hear this. As a Welsh woman Bonnie and her music represented so much to us, it was about fighting and power and living life without apology. May you rest in Musical Glory Bonnie.”
Enduring Legacy and Grammy Nominations
The star, who was born in Neath in South Wales, continued to make music and perform until her death, having released her 18th studio album The Best Is Yet To Come in 2021. Despite being a widely acclaimed and globally-renowned star, Tyler never received a Grammy Award during her decades-long career but did receive three nominations.
Tyler’s official website appears to have crashed since the news of her death was announced.
