Singer Linda Nolan, a cherished member of the iconic girl group The Nolans, has passed away at the age of 65 after a valiant battle with cancer. Known for her distinctive voice, radiant stage presence, and unwavering resilience, Linda’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to music, family, and philanthropy. She died peacefully in a hospital on Sunday morning, surrounded by her loved ones after being admitted with pneumonia over the weekend.

A Star is Born

Linda Nolan was born on February 23, 1959, in Dublin, Ireland, the sixth of eight children to parents Tommy and Maureen Nolan. Both singers, her parents cultivated their children’s talents early, paving the way for the family’s future in entertainment. Linda made her stage debut at just four years old, beginning a journey that would lead to global stardom.

The Nolans shot to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the most successful girl groups of all time. With hits like I’m In The Mood For Dancing, Gotta Pull Myself Together, and Don’t Make Waves, the sisters became international sensations. They achieved milestones including being the first Irish act to sell over a million records globally and outselling The Beatles in Japan. Linda left the group in 1983 but reunited with her sisters for several celebrated comeback performances.

Life Beyond The Nolans

After leaving The Nolans, Linda ventured into musical theatre, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of Mrs. Johnstone in Blood Brothers from 2000 to 2003. She also appeared on television, including guest roles on ITV’s Loose Women alongside her sister Coleen Nolan.

In addition to her entertainment career, Linda was a dedicated philanthropist. She helped raise over £20 million for various charities, including Breast Cancer Now, the Irish Cancer Society, and Samaritans. Her tireless advocacy for cancer awareness and fundraising became a cornerstone of her legacy.

A Family United by Strength

Linda’s life was not without hardship. In 2005, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing a mastectomy just before her 47th birthday. After being declared cancer-free in 2011, she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, and in 2023 revealed the disease had spread to her brain.

The Nolans faced multiple battles with cancer. Linda and her sister Anne revealed in 2020 that they were undergoing treatment simultaneously—Linda for liver cancer and Anne for breast cancer. Tragically, their sister Bernie Nolan died from cancer in 2013 at the age of 52. Anne is now cancer-free, while Coleen Nolan recently disclosed her diagnosis of skin cancer.

Linda’s husband of 26 years, Brian Hudson, also succumbed to skin cancer in 2007. Despite these challenges, Linda’s family remained her pillar of strength, standing united through their struggles.

Tributes to a Legend

Tributes have poured in from friends, fans, and celebrities. Cheryl Baker described Linda as “the most incredible voice” with a “wicked sense of humour,” while comedian Tommy Cannon called her “a joy” to work with. The Blackpool Grand Theatre hailed her as “a true Blackpool icon,” and Linda’s agent, Dermot McNamara, praised her as a “pop icon and beacon of hope” who inspired millions.

Details of a celebration of Linda’s life will be announced soon, as her family and fans honor the legacy of a woman who brought joy to countless people through her music, advocacy, and enduring strength.