Author: bang1

In a dramatic turn of events, Prince Harry has been involved in a serious accident in the United States, prompting an urgent response from the British Royal Family. According to sources close to the palace, the accident occurred earlier today under circumstances that remain unclear, but it has been confirmed that Prince Harry sustained injuries that necessitated immediate medical attention. The news has sent shockwaves through both the public and the royal household, highlighting the precarious balance between duty and family in the life of the monarchy.

In response to the unfolding crisis, King Charles III has made the unprecedented decision to immediately abandon all official engagements and duties. With an intense sense of urgency, the King has boarded a private flight bound for America to be by his son’s side. The rapid mobilization underscores the gravity of the situation and reflects the deep familial bonds that persist despite the complex dynamics of royal responsibilities and personal challenges.
King Charles III memorabilia
Royal family historical tours

The Royal Palace has yet to release detailed information regarding the nature of the accident or the extent of Prince Harry’s injuries. However, the decision by King Charles to prioritize his son’s well-being over his royal obligations speaks volumes about the personal sacrifice involved in navigating such high-profile roles. This move has prompted a flurry of speculation and concern among the public and media alike, as the royal family is thrust into the spotlight under distressing circumstances.

The King’s swift action to travel to the United States signifies not only a father’s love but also the significant role that family support plays in the lives of the royals, even as they carry out their official duties. This unprecedented development also raises questions about the impact on the royal schedule and ongoing engagements. King Charles’ sudden departure from the UK has led to the postponement of several planned public appearances and official functions, with no immediate replacements or rescheduling announced.

As the situation develops, the palace has requested privacy for Prince Harry and the royal family, asking the public and media to respect their space during this challenging time. Updates are expected to be released as more information becomes available. For now, the focus remains on the well-being of Prince Harry and the swift actions of King Charles, whose decision to prioritize family over royal protocol highlights the deeply personal nature of this crisis.

The global media landscape is abuzz with reports and speculations, as fans and well-wishers around the world await further details about Prince Harry’s condition and the implications for the royal family. In the midst of this turmoil, the royal family’s resilience and unity will be tested as they navigate through this unexpected and distressing situation.

Linda Nolan has spent two years sharing every twist and turn of her cancer journey in her Daily Mirror column, Straight From The Heart. Now, after she passed away aged 65, we celebrate her wit, humour and positivity with some of our favourite extracts

Linda Nolan laughed when she realised she would begin her very first dispatch as a new Daily Mirror columnist on the subject not of herself, but her very famous little sister, Coleen.

The Loose Women panelist announced that week she had discovered she had common skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma. Linda, who adored her siblings, was of course worried, but immediately wheeled out her characteristic dry wit.

“Upstaged, every time!” she cackled in the Irish lilt that had persisted from her early years in Dublin. She generally followed poignant news with a side dollop of humour; it was her way, her whole family’s way, she explained.

It was July 2023 and Linda had discovered in March her secondary breast cancer, first discovered in her hip in 2017, and then her liver in 2020, had spread to her brain. It was nearly 20 years since she had first been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, and she initially felt she’d reached the end of the road.

She was terrified, discussing how she’d lost little sister Bernie when her cancer also spread to her brain. She felt like she was mirroring her.

Yet the idea of writing a weekly column about her treatment and progress lifted her spirits. Linda would be the first to laugh that she enjoyed talking about herself – she liked ‘celebrity’. But it was more than that. She genuinely felt better for sharing what she was going through and perhaps giving others a lift along the way.

The columns which followed were without fail funny, even when they were desperately poignant. Some weeks she admitted she was “under the grey cloud” and had “had a few days in bed”, “not wanting to go out”. But even then, she could underline her emotion with a laugh.

Now after her tragic and sudden passing aged just 65, we want to honour Linda’s wit, humour and generosity by sharing some of her most poignant, funny and revealing extracts….

Linda Nolan in her final photoshoot for our sister publication OK!

Linda Nolan: Straight to the Heart Column 2023 – 2025

July 27, 2023

Linda was thrilled to meet her great niece, Maureen’s new baby granddaughter, and was emotional as she described it as one of the moments she was living for….

‘Yep, I’m well aware when you meet a baby you’re the one who’s supposed to be nursing them to sleep. What can I say? My beautiful new great-niece Marlie Francine and I were so comfortable when we met on Friday, we fell asleep in each other’s arms.

Oh my god, she’s gorgeous.

Linda with her great niece Marlie Francine

Linda with her sisters, including Maureen, after reuniting for Quest Red’s show The Nolans Go Cruising. From left, Linda , Denise, Anne, Coleen and Maureen. ( 
Image:
Quest Red)
Meeting my sister Maureen’s newest grandchild has been such a milestone for me since I was diagnosed, it’s hard to describe what it meant. I sat on the sofa in May and all I could do was order baby clothes by the ton (I would stress the only designer purchased was St Michael).

Those clothes were going to fill my place. I thought we’d never meet. Now I’ll get to see her in them all, if I can keep my eyes open. I’d be Sleepy for sure if the Nolans ever played the Seven Dwarfs (now there’s an idea).’

August, 17, 2023

Linda wasn’t happy about needing a stairlift and was haunted by memories of Bernie getting her’s close to the end of her life, but naturally, she made a joke of it….

‘Words I never thought I’d say and certainly not with excitement: Lo, my stairlift has arrived!

After many weeks of waiting – and one nasty fall backwards down four steps – I can now get up and down Denise’s stairs without calling for reinforcements.

Last Thursday, when the stairlift arrived, it was genuinely independence day. But lord, they hear me coming.

When you first strap in, it beeps like a reversing delivery truck.

Then it’s a high-pitched ‘Eeeeeeeeeee’ until I reach my destination.

By the time I’m ready for take off, got the belt on, and got out again, it feels it takes about 10 minutes. I call down for a tea and say: “I’ll be there in 10.” I’m leaving 10 minutes early for everything!’

September 14, 2023

Linda always said it was the little moments of joy that kept her going when she was struggling and overwhelmed….

‘Six red buds have appeared on the rose in Denise’s garden, one for each Nolan girl. It’s called Dublin Bay, which is perfect for us. I bought it for her a while ago – I was looking for a rose called Linda, obviously, but couldn’t find one at the time (outrageous).

The buds have grown because I mustered the energy and went out and deadheaded. I can’t tell you how happy that makes me, the sense of achievement. I used to love gardening, before I got ill.

The Nolans were stars from an early age. Clockwose from left: Bernie, Denise, Maureen, Linda and Anne(centre). Coleen joined the band later ( 
Image:
PA Archive)

Linda beams in her final photoshoot, which she did for our sister publication just before Christmas ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)Since I found out the cancer had spread to my brain, I’ve been going out for lunches as often as possible with friends and family, making the most of every minute, creating special time. They’ll put up a blue plaque for me at my favourite spot in the local park.

But I’m starting to realise it’s the absolutely normal things – the regular life stuff – which is most special. Like deadheading a rose.

I also get a buzz when I clear up the plates after we’ve all sat down on the sofas in front of the telly for dinner (OK, bear with me?). I can’t stand for long but I do what I can. Clearing the plates is life. All right, not all of it, you’ve got to hope. It’s just good to be living it.’

October 5, 2023

Linda at her hilarious best describing her love for Strictly Come Dancing….

‘I have Angela Rippon’s eyebrows. Naturally I wish I had her legs, too, but that’s another matter.

It’s absolutely true. Eyebrows are a frontline defence in the fight against Mr Potato Head when you lose your hair, and so I got mine tattooed for the first time in 2014, and yes, asked for Angela’s.

Hers were the eyebrows of my dreams. I first noticed them when she used to read the news, and now here I am watching them glide and gallop across the Strictly ballroom as she performs gobsmackingly. She’s as glamorous as always.

.

Linda was overjoyed to ring the bell after chemotherapy in 2020 but she hated losing her hair and eyebrows….. ( 
Image:
Grab)

….But she loved Angela Rippon’s! ( 
Image:
PA)
So I’d like to say thank you, Angela, your eyebrows mean more to me than ever today, but also thank you, Strictly. It’s so uplifting to watch people have such a great time. If you’re feeling a bit low it’s the perfect medicine.

I tried to replicate some of the moves at my best friend’s 60th on Friday. I forgot my stick but it didn’t stop me, I was up there to Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, ABBA. I kind of forgot I had cancer, too, until the next day when I could only sleep.’

July 11, 2024

When she felt she had a valid point to make, Linda liked to use her columns to express her views and champion a cause or a charity. She eventually was able to use the chemotherapy drug Enhertu, and spoke out for women denied it….

‘Thirty-one people a day lose their lives to secondary, advanced breast cancer in the UK. I still can’t believe it, and I’m going to be one of them.

Seeing 31 sets of boobs let loose in Westminster can’t help but underline the point though.

Parliament has had a lot to say, but those stunning bosoms have voiced the only thing worth listening to as far as I’m concerned.

Hats (and bras) off to Nadia Sawalha and the group of women who went topless yesterday, some of whom are, like me, living with secondary breast cancer, and who have undergone mastectomies.

Linda was a vocal supporter of the campaign to make ‘wonderdrug’ Enhertu more widely available on the NHS and applauded this body paint protest, with Nadia Sawalha, at Westminster ( 
Image:
Philip Coburn)
This was no joke: their brave stand was made to extend lives – including many of their own, and maybe mine.

They were calling for the drug Enhertu to be licensed for use in England for women with a particular type of secondary breast cancer, as it already is in Scotland.

The drug can extend life by months, but right now here in England, you are denied it. It makes me so angry saying it out loud.

While I’m waiting to find out if I’m medically suitable for it, many of these women, including Nadia’s good friend, Hannah, know they are.

Yet they have zero control over getting it – and with cancer, you have precious little control already. A few months doesn’t sound like much. To me, and people like me, every day means everything. It is why we fight.’

August 29, 2024

Linda was open about her struggle when her treatment stopped working and she needed to change chemotherapy….

‘After my results last week Maureen and I went for breakfast.

I sobbed when my consultant told me the tumours in my brain had grown. But somehow, afterwards, all that seemed right to do was to go and eat.

We went to our usual cafe, where I have two options. A full English where they know if “it’s for Linda” to add an extra rasher. Or pancakes with berries – where they know when “it’s for Linda” to send a bowl of ice cream with the bowl of cream.

Last Thursday I had a full English – followed by a bowl of ice cream.

As we sat and ate, more and more of my family and friends showed up.

There’s a Linda’s Treatment WhatsApp group and word had been sent out. My brother Brian and his wife Annie walked in, followed by Denise, then Anne. Thank God we all like to eat.

I just love it when everyone comes together. Weddings are preferable to tumour growth, but I’ll take it. It seems to be what happens in times of trouble and strife, and I’m so lucky. In showbiz you have hundreds of acquaintances and few real friends – but I have so many, and many of them are my family.

When we got home though, I just needed to be on my own.

I went up to “tidy my bedroom” – like the good teenage 65-year-old I am – and let the news sink in. Then I didn’t come out for a couple of days. Deliveroo Denise brought up tea, sandwiches and soup, and I stayed in bed. I watched Liverpool on the telly, and New Amsterdam on Netflix, and wallowed. You have to let yourself selfpity sometimes. When I used to ask: “Why us?”, Bernie would reply: “Why not us?” But, you know – why us? Why me?’

October 10, 2024

Linda fell regularly during her final months, and often remembered Bernie’s similar struggles before her own death….

‘I clearly remember the day Bernie couldn’t get out of her car. She and her husband pulled up outside our place in Blackpool and from upstairs I heard the kerfuffle. Her legs had stopped working.

Linda and her late sister Bernie in 2011 ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

Linda often drew parallels between her and Bernie’s ordeals with secondary breast cancer. Bernie, above, died aged 52, in 2013 ( 
Image:
PA)
“They just went,” she told me once they finally got her inside. “Can I get you a glass of water?” I asked, desperately worried. “No, but I’ll have a vodka mule,” she said. This week the same happened to me. We’d been out for lunch but when it came to getting out of my brother Brian’s car, I simply couldn’t.

It’s the hardest thing to explain. You feel completely helpless – nothing is within your control. You go to put weight on your legs and there’s nothing there, so you fall back. Finally I managed to do it with a lot of help, but the wobbliness isn’t going away (and no, I didn’t hit the mules). I’ve now achieved the hat-trick – falling three times in a day. It hasn’t proved a charm.’

October 31, 2024

‘Well, here’s a first – I’ve got a black eye. Monday morning saw me clutching a pack of frozen bacon to my eyebrow, but I’d rather have it in a sandwich.

Honestly, we’ve got a sitcom right here.

Of course, I fell again. I’d got myself some juice and a croissant from the kitchen at around 7.30am and was taking my plate to the sink before my brother Brian arrived to take me to the hospital for my bloods.

As I walked across the kitchen, my legs just went. I had a passing realisation I was going to hit the dresser, and then I did.

I didn’t pass out, I just lay there knowing Brian would be arriving in five minutes so I’d best hang on. By the time he did and helped me up – exactly what happened a few months ago, poor man – he said I had a comedy bump. But it wasn’t very funny from where I was lying.

Naturally he couldn’t find any frozen peas to clamp on it, or a bag of ice – despite our love of a G&T. Just the rashers.

“At least you can tell them you’re bringing home the bacon,” he said. And then off we went to hospital.’

December 12, 2024

In her final weeks, Linda began to contemplate her death more than she’d allowed herself to do before. She openly embraced her local hospice and the care they were already beginning to offer her….

‘There was laughter coming from the hospice when I arrived. A Christmas party was in full swing over in the wellbeing centre. It must be working, is all I can say.

I know, laughter’s not what you expect, is it? It’s not what I tend to think of when I think “hospice”.

But I’ve been going regularly now for a while, for physio and reflexology, and it’s all starting to feel a bit more? normal.

It’s normally a quiet place, but they do all sorts here, including social groups – it was one of them having the party. They build a relationship with you before you make your final visit, so to speak. It sort of helps remove the elephant in the room.

Linda looked stunning in this final photoshoot from December – so much so she was the New Year cover star for The Mirror’s Notebook magazine
The lovely nurse who met me was certainly oblivious to large animals. She came in like a bowling ball, northern and chatty, and asked me if I’d “thought about any arrangements”. I must stress this wasn’t our first meeting. She nursed Bernie and is just lovely. It was in my face, but at the same time I didn’t mind. I need to talk about this stuff. And, being me, I’ve made very few “arrangements”. She asked me straight if I’m afraid. And I replied that “yes, I am afraid of dying. And sad, too.”

You can read more of Linda’s poignant and honest columns here

Max Turner actor Paddy Bever has revealed he is quitting Coronation Street as he opens up to the Mirror at his decision to venture away from the cobbles

A much-loved actor has quit Coronation Street, having decided to try his hand at other roles.

Max Turner actor Paddy Bever, 22, has already filmed his final scenes and will depart from the screen in early spring.

Bosses have known that he would bow out since March, allowing them time to develop his exit storyline which comes amid huge turmoil for the Platt family in the coming weeks.

He told The Mirror: “After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities. I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way.”

The actor, who won the rising star award at the National Television Awards in 2022, said he was “eternally grateful” to bosses for giving him the chance to bring Max’s complicated story to life in the soap, having taken over the role in 2021 from previous actor Harry McDermott.

“It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show,” he said. “This chapter has been unforgettable and while I look forward to what lies ahead, I will treasure these memories.”

Paddy has told bosses he is set to leave
Max, whose real mother is David Platt’s first wife Kylie, first appeared in Corrie in 2010. He grew up in foster care but Kylie regained custody of him – after she initially sold him for £20,000 to his aunt Becky McDonald (Katherine Kelly).

Later Kylie married David who became a proper father figure for Max, and since Kylie’s murder in 2016, he has been raised by David and second wife Shona (Julia Goulding). Having been expelled from school, Max – who has ADHD – was groomed by a far right group and ended up in a youth detention centre, but has since turned his life around and is now in a relationship with Lauren Bolton.

His exit is likely to centre around a major fire at No. 8, where the Platts have lived since 1991. It will go up in smoke just weeks after matriarch Gail left the cobbles for a new life in France with her husband Jesse (John Thomson).

Paddy’s departure comes amid a raft of other cast exits – some because they’ve decided to leave others who’ve been written out. But bosses have played down the notion that the soap is in any sort of crisis, pointing to the eternal “ebb and flow” of characters in Weatherfield.

Many of those who are leaving, including Sue Cleaver after 25 years and Shelley King after 11, informed producers many months ago to allow for the storylines to be developed around their planned departures.

Paddy told bosses 10 months ago that he would leave at the end of his current contract. One source said: “He finished filming at the end of 2024 and will exit as part of a huge upcoming storyline for the Platt family. Everyone at Corrie loves Paddy and we wish him every success for the future.

Corrie departures are “not a surprise or a shock and is all part of the ebb and flow” of life on the show ( 
Image:
PA)
“This is not a surprise or a shock and is all part of the ebb and flow of characters from the show. We have many new characters joining in the coming weeks and months – and also some returning characters.”

Those departing the show also include Charlotte Jordan (Daisy Midgeley) and Sue Devaney (Debbie Webster) – who will remain on screen until 2026.

Colson Smith, who plays Craig Tinker, will leave after his contract was not renewed, along with Luca Toolan as Mason Radcliffe, who was killed off earlier this month.

New boss Kate Brooks started in November after spending six years running Emmerdale and has warned that 2025 was going to see some changes, saying: “There are a few exits this year, and some unexpected ones that will send shockwaves.”

Coronation Street averaged 4.4million viewers per episode across 2024, making it the most-watched soap on British TV.

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New character Brie appeared on Coronation Street just in time to throw a wrench in Lauren Bolton’s trial – but Brie’s actress, Jessica Ellis, was a very familiar face to many fans

There was a familiar face in scenes with Lauren Bolton on Wednesday’s episode of Coronation Street.

A new character is here to cause even more trouble for Lauren, and viewers immediately realised that they’d seen her face before. Brie, played by Jessica Ellis, 37, appeared as a fellow prisoner with Lauren, housed in the same area.

While Lauren is staying in the mother and baby unit with baby son Frankie, Brie is there with her baby daughter. Soon enough, the pair clashed with fans expecting more drama for the teen mum.

But many viewers were left thrilled when they realised where they knew Brie from. Actress Jessica is best known for playing Tegan Lomax on Hollyoaks.

Jessica was on the soap from 2013 to 2018, featured in a jaw-dropping 398 episodes. The star is no stranger to soaps, having acted in a couple of episodes of EastEnders in back 2011, and one episode of Doctors the same year.

Taking to X as the scenes aired, fans shared where the knew Brie from. One viewer said: “TEGAN,” as another excitedly said: “ITS TEGAN.” A third comment said: “Yayyy! Tegan Lomax. Another one off Hollyoaks,” as a fourth wrote: “Teagan Lomax.”

Fans instantly recognised Jessica Ellis as Tegan Lomax from rival soap Hollyoaks
Brie isn’t the only new character involved in Lauren’s trial with an actor fans will recognise from elsewhere. Corrie has signed up EastEnders star Samuel James, who is best known for playing Jimmie Broome on BBC One’s EastEnders, and for his role as Garth Stubbs on Birds of a Feather.

According to The Sun, Samuel will be joining Corrie as solicitor Steven Poyser, who is leading the prosecution in the court case. A source told the publication: “Samuel will appear on screen for a number of episodes in a guest role as Lauren’s fate is finally revealed.”

It comes as Lauren’s onscreen boyfriend Max Turner is set to leave the ITV soap, with actor Paddy Bever quitting the role. The star has already filmed his final scenes and will depart from the screen in early spring.Bosses have known that he would bow out since March last year, allowing them time to develop his exit storyline which comes amid huge turmoil for the Platt family in the coming weeks. He told The Mirror: “After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities.

“I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way. It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable and while I look forward to what lies ahead, I will treasure these memories.”

For years, Linda Nolan wrote bravely about the realities of living with incurable cancer in her candid Mirror column, and as she reached her final days, she made sure to document every moment she could

The brave and inspirational Linda Nolan, who has passed away at the age of 65, spent her final days surrounded by her devoted siblings, who were at her bedside when she died.

Linda’s final moments were said to have been full of “love and comfort” after one last bustling Christmas with her beloved family, who kept a vigil by her side as she reached her final hours. Linda had lived with cancer for many years, and in March 2023, it was revealed the disease had spread to her brain.

Christmas was singer and actress Linda’s “favourite time of year”, and she documented this last one in her candid column for the Mirror, which was filled with examples of her excellent sense of humour and ability to look on the bright side, even during some of the most painful times in her life.

Sadly, a bad chest infection left Linda unable to eat her Christmas dinner, or indeed get down any nutrients other than energy drinks for the next 11 days, much to the dismay of her close-knit band of surviving sisters, Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59.

The singer was surrounded by loved ones at the end ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)

Family was everything to Linda ( 
Image:
Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hea)

Linda’s death has come as a shock to her loyal fans, many of whom have followed her cancer journey in her refreshingly honest weekly Mirror column.

In a column published on January 1, Linda explained that she’d been unable to “eat a bite, not even a sprout” on what was her “favourite day of the year”. Linda recalled: “I staggered down at noon and could only sit on the sofa as everyone else tucked into lunch. I managed to open some presents but was back in bed by 8 pm. I still have gifts unwrapped. A travesty.”

On Boxing Day, Linda headed to the GP, where she was prescribed antibiotics for a chest infection as well as anti-sickness pills for nausea. She was keen to avoid a hospital visit, so her doctor agreed she could go back home unless her condition took a turn.

Admitting that it hadn’t been the fun-filled festive season she’d hoped for, Linda penned: “It’s been grim. It wasn’t the Christmas I wanted. There was no late-night karaoke, and not one of my four selection boxes got opened. As I write this, I don’t plan to go to Coleen’s New Year’s bash either. No burger van in the driveway for me, and no cuddles with her son Jake’s new baby. I’m beyond disappointed.”

Nolan sister Linda was disappointed to have missed out on Coleen’s New Year’s Eve bash
After becoming worried about Linda on New Year’s Eve, Denise, 72, made sure to have her checked over at the hospital, where she was put on a dose of steroids on top of antibiotics. In another piece, Linda reflected on her low-key end to the year, with close pal Sue joining her at home. According to Linda: “They sent me back home to rest, and she was then reassured enough to go to Coleen’s New Year’s party as my friend Sue and her husband Graham came round to stay. I was asleep by 10.10 pm – but that was pretty good going!

“I missed out on pizzas and babies – our new great nephews, Coleen’s son Jake’s boy and our brother Tommy’s new grandson. But for the first time in my life, I wasn’t in the mood for cuddles.”

In her final Mirror column, published January 8, Linda revealed her first meal of 2025 had been a takeaway dish of “Chicken curry with pineapple, no mushrooms”, which she enjoyed with Denise and her husband, Tom Anderson. Linda told readers: “Pineapple in a curry. That was the foil container to finally tempt me out of my fast. My very own Chinese New Year. I hadn’t eaten for 11 days – what a Christmas! A complete wipe out. Everyone’s been so worried. The girls have been bringing me energy drinks, and that’s all I’ve been able to get down.”

Linda will be remembered for her contributions to music, and her campaign work ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix via Getty Images)The next day, Linda felt well enough to visit her brother Brian, whose wife Annie had baked a plate of scones, and a coffee and walnut cake. Witty even in her final days, Linda wrote: “I told her no one likes a show off. I ate a whole half a scone. Jam and cream too. It was so good to get out and chat – or listen, rather, which I know sounds unlikely, but I’m suffering from the worst dry mouth, so gossiping’s restricted. I think that’s a chemo side-effect rather than the flu.”

Discussing how ill she’d been, Linda said: “The doctors say it’s been a bad case of flu. I’d walk a few steps and struggle to catch my breath. My legs were even more wobbly than usual and, although I try not to, I thought of how Bernie was at the end. You think, ‘Oh my God, is this it?’

“It was only on Monday I felt well enough to venture out. It feels like a whole new world out there. There’s nothing like the sensation of starting to feel better after an illness. You’ve forgotten what it feels like to feel normal (well, I say normal?). In a final line that now feels poignant in retrospect, Linda continued: “I’m no fan of resolutions, but here’s one: It’ll take more than flu to finish me off.”

Linda used her fame as a Nolan sister to campaign for important cancer-related causes ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)

She led the campaign for wonderdrug Enhertu to be made readily available on the NHS for all those with secondary breast cancer ( 
Image:
Daily Mirror)
On Saturday 11, Linda was taken to hospital with breathing problems. Doctors diagnosed double pneumonia, and because of her secondary breast cancer, which had spread to her brain, she was sadly unable to recover. Linda’s sisters, Anne, Denise, Maureen, and Coleen, were called to her bedside at 3.30 am on Tuesday as doctors started end-of-life care. They kept a vigil by her side in her final hours before she passed away peacefully on Wednesday.

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

This statement also acknowledged Linda’s impressive achievements as a West End star and singer, as well as in the field of charity campaigning. It reads: “As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success, touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I’m In The Mood for Dancing. Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment.

“Linda also dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20 million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Ireland and Samaritans, amongst countless others. Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy.”

After first being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, Linda was given the all-clear in 2011. However, in 2017, just four years after the tragic death of sister Bernie in 2013, at the age of just 53, Linda learned the disease had returned after tumours were discovered in her hip bone and pelvis. Like Bernie, Linda was diagnosed with incurable secondary breast cancer and remained determined to make the absolute most of the time she had left.

Using her significant platform as a music icon, and her wonderful sense of humour, Linda dedicated herself to helping others who were navigating similar ordeals. This included her own sister Anne, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2020, mere days after Linda learned her cancer had spread to her liver.

The two supportive sisters underwent chemotherapy together, but while Anne thankfully went into remission, Linda’s cancer could only be slowed down, not cured. In 2023, Linda discovered the cancer had spread to her bones and brain, but even then, she continued to throw herself into charity work – leading the campaign for wonderdrug Enhertu to be made readily available on the NHS for all those living with secondary breast cancer.

Linda Nolan, who has today passed away at the age of 65, enjoyed an incredible life surrounded by loved ones. But one painful regret continued to haunt her as she entered her later years

Linda Nolan lived an extraordinary life filled with accomplishments and love, but she harboured one painful regret.

Pop icon Linda, who rose to fame with her sisters in Irish girl group The Nolans, passed away “peacefully” today surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 65. Linda had lived with cancer for many years, having first been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. In March 2023, it was revealed the disease had spread to her brain.

In spite of her ongoing health struggles, Linda kept her brilliant sense of humour and ability to find joy even in her toughest moments. A much-loved Mirror columnist, in one of her final pieces, Dublin-born Linda was able to look on the bright side despite having spent her final Christmas too ill to eat or hug her new grand-nephews.

She told Mirror readers: “Although I’ve missed the revelry, there’s been a different kind of Christmas and New Year in its place. Days of peace and reflection. We’ve talked about Christmases past and all the good times. We popped Sinatra on and remembered Mum and Dad. And my best friend Sue plans to stay with me to see in the New Year, telling me, ‘I am where you are’.”

The singer passed away ‘peacefully’ today, surrounded by her sisters ( 
Image:
PA)

Despite expressing gratitude for all the joy she’d experienced over the years, Linda never shied away from sharing the heartaches she endured – including her regrets over never had children of her own.

Looking back on her eventful life, Linda told RSVP Magazine in 2021: “My only regret in life is that I didn’t have children and that is nobody’s fault but my own. The reason I didn’t have children is because I let my career get in the way and I thought, ‘No, I will wait’. But I don’t dwell on it, and I don’t cry whenever I see a baby.”

She wished she and husband Brian had welcomed children together ( 
Image:
PA)
Linda, who tragically tost husband Brian Hudson to cancer in 2007, also spoke about not having children in her 2018 autobiography From My Heart, where she discussed what she would have done differently if she could have her “time again”.

She wrote: “It was completely down to my career and the idea that I had all the time in the world, and then you realise you don’t. Instead of putting it off year after year, if I had my time again, I would have said to Brian, ‘Well, no time is perfect, let’s have a child’.”

Although she never fulfilled her wish, Linda was a stepmother to Brian’s children, Lloyd and Sarah and was also a foster carer. As the sixth of eight children, she also welcomed many nieces, nephews, and eventually great-nieces and great-nephews.

Brian passed away in 2007 ( 
Image:
Sunday People)
In a statement released to the Mirror, Linda’s agent Dermot McNamara said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

As the sixth of eight children, Linda enjoyed a busy family life ( 
Image:
TV Times via Getty Images)And in a heartbreaking tribute posted to Instagram, grieving sister Coleen wrote: “I am utterly devastated by the passing of my sister, Linda. Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour and laughter was infectious, her presence could light up any room.

“Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her. Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched, and 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 (Colette)”

For more information or support about cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.

Linda Nolan, who has sadly passed away at the age of 65, was left heartbroken following the death of her soulmate husband, Brian Hudson. But she had, in recent times, felt ‘ready for love’ again

Linda Nolan was loved by many, but there was only one man in her life who held her full heart.

The Nolan sister, who sadly passed away today (Wednesday, January 15) at the age of 65, spoke just last year about wanting to find romance while living with incurable cancer after losing her beloved husband to the same disease.

Dublin-born Linda, who rose to fame alongside sisters and bandmates Anne, Denise, Maureen, Bernie and Coleen, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. A fall in 2017 led to the discovery of cancer in her pelvis, which had spread to her liver by 2020. In March 2023, the singer revealed that the cancer had spread to her brain.

Throughout her significant struggles, Linda remained a beacon of positivity, and even during gruelling treatment, she felt “ready for love” again. However, she knew all too well that no man could hold a candle to her husband of 26 years, Brian Hudson.

Singer Linda rose to fame with her close-knit sisters in The Nolans ( 
Image:
Andre Csillag/REX/Shutterstock)

Linda met Brian in 1977, back when he was The Nolans’ tour manager. They married two years later with her close-knit gang of sisters, of course, on hand for bridesmaid duties. There was plenty of joy ahead for the couple, as well as profound sorrow.

Brian died at the age of 60 in 2007 from cancer, all while Linda was dealing with her agonising breast cancer diagnosis. It was a devastating loss for Linda, who longed to have Brian back by he side as she navigated many trials and tribulations in the years that followed.

Brian was Linda’s tour manager ( 
Image:
Daily Record)

Sparks flew and they married in 1979 ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)
As she told the Mirror in 2016: “I know my family are desperate for me to be happy again, it breaks their hearts as well as mine. But I just don’t ever see it happening. I miss Brian every second of the day. I know some people find it difficult to understand that the grief is still that raw, but it will always be raw because somebody you love isn’t with you. A little piece of me died with him.”

Concerned sister Coleen also opened up about Linda’s grief, reflecting that her sibling deserved to find love again. It wasn’t quite so simple for grief-stricken Linda, however, who at that point still carried a ‘token urn’ of some of his ashes wherever she went.

Linda’s sisters longed for her to find happiness again with someone else, but it just wasn’t that simple ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)

By 2022, Linda had begun dabbling with online dating, with her ever-supportive sisters even setting her up on Tinder. However, after realising it wasn’t quite the right platform for her, and wanting something a little less casual, Linda signed up for some dating apps aimed at more mature people, revealing that she’d “spoken and met with a few people”.

In a piece penned for the Daily Express at the time, Linda reflected: “While nothing has come of it per se, the whole experience showed me that romance could be possible in my life again one day and made me think it would be nice to have some male company.

“I’m not talking about marriage or anything like that. I know I’ve already had the love of my life and have been incredibly lucky to have that. But perhaps there could still be someone else out there for me – someone to watch a film or go with a drink with, the companionship.”

And by March 2024, Linda felt ready to take the plunge and find love again, cheekily telling Hello! magazine: “If a George Clooney lookalike came along, it would be hard to resist, but if he had the personality of a mouse, I wouldn’t be interested. There has to be humour and romance. Not too much to ask for, is it?”

Brian’s sense of humour was one of his best attributes ( 
Image:
Sunday Mail)
Humour was one of the attributes Linda loved best about hubby Brian, recalling how Brian was left smiling away on their wedding day after her father accidentally dropped his false teeth down the loo and so had to give his father-of-the-bride speech with a “whistle”. She shared: “That’s how I’ll always remember him, always smiling.”

Ahead of her final Christmas, Linda spoke with her usual zest for life about her determination to make every last second count. In a poignant message of defiance, Linda told the Mirror: “I thought my 60th birthday would be my last, but I’m still here, five years later. It’s easy to sit back and get depressed about it, but I’m still going. My hope for 2025? To not die, obviously. I just want to be here with my family. I want us all to be here next year, that’s the goal.”

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

For more information or support about cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.

Linda Nolan was honoured on ITV’s Loose Women following the heartbreaking news that the singer and TV personality had tragically died following a 20 year battle with cancer

Linda Nolan was honoured on Wednesday’s Loose Women by the emotional stars of the show following her tragic death.

The tragic news broke just as the show went to air, with Linda’s manager announcing that the singer and television star had died at the age of 65 following a courageous battle with cancer. On Wednesday’s instalment of the ITV panel show, of which Linda was a regular guest, Christine Lampard, Myleene Klass, Kelly Brook and Nadia Sawalha shared their memories of Linda.

Announcing the news, host Christine said: “Some very sad news for you now. Linda Nolan, Coleen’s sister, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017 has died at the ae of 65. In a statement just released, ‘It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, she passed peacefully with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.

“Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience. Sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspiring others. Rest in peace Linda you will be deeply missed but never forgotten. We’ve been talking about Linda for so long with Coleen, and I know it was an incredibly tough time for the family but you’re just never prepared.”

Loose Women aired a moving tribute

Linda often appeared on the programme alongside her younger sister, Coleen. In a moving tribute, Nadia said: “Nothing prepares because there is a moment when the light goes out, and when the light goes out, that is the most awful shock. They’ve been through so much as a family, sending all our love.” “Yes, absolutely,” echoed Christine, before adding: “Sending love to Coleen, Linda’s family, all of the family. We’re thinking of you all today.”

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless and made it so much more bearable. She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Anchor Christine Lampard became emotional as she announced Linda’s passing
The family have asked us not to name the hospital, but have assured well-wishers they will be organising a public memorial for the much-loved star. The news of Linda’s death will come as a shock to her loyal fans who had followed her as she shared the frank and honest realities of her journey with cancer in her weekly Mirror column.

Linda’s passing comes just one week after she told the Mirror that despite being ill over Christmas, she was feeling somewhat better. However, just two days later, she was taken to hospital after her breathing deteriorated. Linda was subsequently diagnosed with double pneumonia and due to her secondary breast cancer, which had also spread to her brain, her condition worsened.

Her sisters – Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59 – were called to her bedside at 3.30am on Tuesday as doctors made the decision to place her in end-of-life care. They kept a vigil by her side in her final hours. Over the course of her career, Linda and her siblings, The Nolans, sold a whopping 30 million records, toured with Frank Sinatra and even performed for President Gerald Ford.

Presenter Nadia Sawalha also honoured Linda and shared her love with the Nolan familySharing her achievements in a statement, Dermot went on to say: “As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success, touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I’m In The Mood for Dancing. Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment.

“Linda also dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Ireland and Samaritans, amongst countless others. Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy.”

Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and was given the all-clear in 2011. But in 2017 – four years after the death of her sister Bernie, aged 52 in 2013 – Linda was told the disease had returned after tumours were found in her hip bone and pelvis. Like Bernie, she was diagnosed with incurable secondary breast cancer but remained determined to make the most of the time she had left.

Loose Women was hosted by Christine Lampard on Tuesday afternoon, with Myleene Klass, Kelly Brook, and Nadia Sawalha on the panel, but it was missing one star.

This afternoon’s episode of Loose Women was a rollercoaster, starting off with a bit of mayhem as the show went live missing one of its stars. The ITV chat show had to adapt quickly when Nadia Sawalha didn’t make it on time for the opening.

Christine Lampard, married to football icon Frank Lampard, took the reins, with just Kelly Brook and Myleene Klass by her side announcing that Nadia had been “running late”. The panelist did eventually make a grand entrance, cycling onto the set, much to the amusement of everyone.

Despite the initial confusion for those tuning in, it turned out Nadia’s quirky arrival was all part of the act. She hopped off her bike, helmet still on, and quipped to the audience: “I was so frightened I was going to hurt the front row.”

Christine praised her efforts, saying: “You were brilliant.” But Nadia, wasn’t willing to accept her compliment as she retorted: “Shut up, I was so embarrassing.”

The mood took a sombre turn later in the show when the panel received heartbreaking news during the broadcast. Linda Nolan, a cherished member of the Loose Women family, has died following a battle with cancer, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Christine addressed her co-star’s absence
Fighting back tears, Christine delivered the devastating update post-break, announcing: “Some very sad news for you now, Linda Nolan, Coleen’s sister who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, has died at the age of 65.”

She added, with evident emotion: “In a statement just released, it is with profound sadness that we announced the passing of Linda Nolan. She passed peacefully with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.”

Christine opened the show announcing “Nadia was running late”
Concluding her poigninat Tribute, Christine wrapped up: “Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievement in music and entertainment, she was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others, rest in peace Linda, you will be deeply missed.”

The entire panel were visibly moved by the sad news. Despite knowing Linda’s death was most likely imminent, Nadia spoke about the shock of Linda’s passing and the whole family’s journey.

Linda Nolan sadly lost her battle with breast cancer ( 
Image:
Andy Stenning/Daily Mirror)She said: “Nothing prepares you for when the light goes out and when the light goes out that is the most awful shock and they’ve been through so much as a family.” Nadia finished up with: “Sending all of our love.”

In a statement given to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara confirmed Linda’s death, saying: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless.”

Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1, from 12:30pm.

Pop star Linda Nolan, 65, planned her own farewell when she learned her secondary breast cancer was terminal in a bid to help the beloved family she has left behind

Linda Nolan died today following a long journey with secondary breast cancer, but sadly it is a day that the 65 year old had been forced to prepare for all too well.

The late Daily Mirror Columnist, TV personality and pop star passed away with her famous sisters at her side, with her final hours said to have been filled with “love and comfort”.

Linda was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017 and in 2020 was devastated to learn it had spread. And when it came to her funeral, the brave star insisted on planning out her final farewell to spare them from the painful job.

Writing in her autobiography, From My Heart, in 2018 she explained: “I want to get all my affairs ‘in order’, as they say. I’ve caused my family enough worry over the years and so I want everything I can decided now so they don’t have to if I become very poorly.”

Linda is the second Nolan sister to die from breast cancer, with Bernie Nolan losing her life in 2013 at the age of 52 ( 
Image:
TV Times via Getty Images)

Linda planned her own funeral, drawing inspiration from how her late husband Brian prepared for his. She chose a Neil Sedaka tune, Our Last Song Together, for the service saying “It’s beautiful and by then it really will be our last song with my wonderful family” and also chose the funeral directors.

“Brian organised his funeral and it was amazing,” she said. “Bernie arranged hers. It’s easier for people left behind.”

When it came to her coffin, the singer opted for one in pink glitter. “Brian’s coffin was like a flight case, with ‘This way up’, ‘Fragile’ on it,” Linda told the Mirror. “Our auntie had a beautiful coffin with pictures of us around it.”

“Maureen said, ‘Look at this coffin, it was made for you, it’s pink glitter’,” added the star, who was once dubbed the “naughty Nolan”. “Absolutely. I am the blingy Nolan.”

Linda planned her own funeral after learning that her condition was terminal ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)

Linda learned her cancer had returned 12 years after her original diagnosis in 2005, when she was babysitting her grand-nieces Ava, Sienna and Roma and fell down the stairs, feeling a crack in her hip. Doctors found a mass, which they confirmed was a cancer.

In a statement released to the Mirror today, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”