Ben Lewis, an acclaimed Australian actor known for his role in the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera, has tragically passed away at the age of 46. The news of his death, which occurred in Sydney due to bowel cancer, was shared by his friend, Todd Woodbridge, on Instagram.
Early Life and Education
Lewis was born on September 28, 1979, in London to a family of opera singers. He pursued his passion for music and drama at the Royal College of Music in London and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
Theatrical Career
Throughout his career, Lewis was involved in several notable productions. In the early 2000s, he appeared in major shows in Sydney, including:
- Urinetown
- Priscilla Queen of the Desert
- A Little Night Music
In 2011, he played a significant role in the original Australian production of Love Never Dies, a sequel to The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Legacy in The Phantom of the Opera
Lewis starred in The Phantom of the Opera during its 2017-2018 run in London. His portrayal left a lasting impression on audiences and solidified his status in the theater community.
Other Contributions
In addition to his prominent roles, Lewis participated in the UK tours of:
- Love Me Tender
- The Bodyguard
He was also part of the West End revival of Company in 2018.
Health Battle and Final Days
Lewis received a bowel cancer diagnosis in February 2024. His struggle with the illness highlighted the challenges he faced in his later life.
Personal Life
He is survived by his wife, Melle Stewart, an Australian actress. Stewart made headlines in 2021 after suffering a stroke, which she attributed to a rare adverse reaction to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Despite her health challenges, she remains a strong proponent of vaccination, having received multiple doses of the Pfizer vaccine.
Ben Lewis’s impact on theater and his advocacy for health issues will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
