Catherine Zeta-Jones has said her “heart is broken” after hearing that Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, known for the 1980s hit “Total Eclipse of the Heart”, has died at the age of 75. Tyler, whose real name was Gaynor Hopkins, died on Wednesday night in a hospital in Portugal, where she was being treated near her home in Faro. The singer had been placed in an induced coma following emergency intestinal surgery months earlier.
Zeta-Jones Pays Heartfelt Tribute
Zeta-Jones, 56, shared a photograph of the pair together on Instagram, taken the night before her wedding. Tyler was married to her cousin Robert Sullivan. The actress wrote: “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 and Fans Mourn
A statement on Tyler’s official website said her family and team were “heartbroken” after she “unexpectedly passed away” on Wednesday night. The website appeared to have crashed following the announcement. Tyler was due to perform at the Sunshine Festival in Worcester this summer, along with several European dates, and was booked to perform at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on December 17.
Tributes from Fellow Stars
Sir Cliff Richard, who sang a duet with Tyler on the 2019 song “Taking Control”, said she was a “wonderful friend gone too soon” in a Facebook post. 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.” Sir Rod Stewart and rockstar Bryan Adams also paid tribute.
Political Leaders React
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described Tyler as “one of Britain’s greatest recording artists”. His 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. The Prime Minister’s thoughts are very much with her friends and family.” Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth 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.”
Career Highlights
Tyler achieved international fame in the 1980s with “Total Eclipse Of The Heart”, which topped charts in the UK and the US. The album “Faster Than The Speed of Night” also reached number one in the UK. Other hit songs included “Holding Out For A Hero”, “It’s A Heartache”, and “If You Were A Woman (And I Was A Man)”. She represented the UK in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo, Sweden, with “Believe In Me”, finishing in 19th place. Tyler released her 18th studio album, “The Best Is Yet To Come”, in 2021. Despite three Grammy nominations, she never won the award. She was made an MBE in 2023 for services to music.
Welsh Broadcaster's Tribute
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.”
