Heartbreaking Loss: Ben Lewis, Celebrated ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Actor, Dies at 46

Theatre lovers around the world are mourning the passing of Ben Lewis, the acclaimed Australian stage actor best known for his powerful portrayal of The Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera and its sequel Love Never Dies. Lewis passed away in Sydney at age 46 after a courageous battle with bowel cancer. His death was announced by close friend and TV presenter Todd Woodbridge, who paid tribute to the “rare talent and even rarer soul” that Ben was.

Born in London to renowned opera singers Michael Lewis and Patricia Price, Ben’s passion for the stage began early. After training at the Royal College of Music and Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, he became a celebrated figure in musical theatre, starring in productions like Urinetown, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and A Little Night Music. His unforgettable performances and resonant voice made him one of the most beloved stage talents of his generation.