Ben Lewis, Beloved Musical Theater Star, Dies at 46

Sydney, Australia – Ben Lewis, an acclaimed Australian actor known for his role in the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera, has died at the age of 46 after battling bowel cancer. His friend, Australian television presenter Todd Woodbridge, announced the news on Instagram on October 6, sharing heartfelt tributes to Lewis.

“Today we lost Ben Lewis, one of my family’s dearest friends,” Woodbridge wrote. “He was way too young, and the Australian Musical Theatre family lost one of the greats.” Woodbridge remembered Lewis as a “funny, caring” mentor who connected deeply with those he worked with.

Lewis was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February 2024, a condition that progressed quickly despite initial lack of symptoms. By the time of diagnosis, the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes and liver. His GoFundMe page detailed his ongoing struggle, including multiple surgeries and chemotherapy treatments which ultimately proved ineffective.

In a touching message posted on the fundraiser in July, Lewis expressed gratitude for the support from friends and family during his health crisis. He also took on the role of caregiver for his wife, fellow actress Melle Stewart, who suffered a stroke in 2021. “We couldn’t do any of it without you all,” Lewis wrote.

Born in London on September 28, 1979, Lewis came from a family with a rich musical background. He studied voice at London’s Royal College of Music and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. His stage career began in the early 2000s with works like Urinetown and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

In addition to his roles in Love Never Dies and Phantom of the Opera, Lewis also starred in various productions including the revival of Company in 2018 and the UK tours of Love Me Tender and The Bodyguard.

Tributes poured in from the theater community, including a poignant note from Andrew Lloyd Webber, who reflected on their collaboration and the toll that cancer takes on young performers. “These dreadful stomach and bowel cancers are increasingly afflicting young men,” he said, sending condolences to Lewis’ family.

Lewis is survived by his wife, Melle Stewart, along with his extended family and a legacy that will be remembered by audiences and fellow performers alike.