Linda Nolan, singer with The Nolans, dies aged 65

15 January 2025, 13:07 | Updated: 15 January 2025, 13:15

Linda Nolan was diagnosed with breast cancer 20 years ago.

Linda Nolan has died at the age of 65.

The singer and TV personality who found fame in the 1970s as a member of The Nolans, passed away peacefully in hospital this morning (Janaury 15), her agent Dermot McNamara confirmed

"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," he said.

"As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success; becoming the first Irish act to sell over a million records worldwide; 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."

The Nolans - I'm In the Mood for Dancing (Official Video)

He added: "Beyond her incredible career, Linda dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20m for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Irish Cancer Society 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 after undergoing a mastectomy the following year was eventually given the all-clear in 2011.

Coleen And Linda Nolan Emotionally Talk About Remembering Sister Bernie | Loose Women

However, doctors discovered a secondary, incurable form of cancer on her pelvis when she was hospitalised after a fall in 2017.

In 2020, Linda revealed that the cancer had spread to her liver, and in 2023, that it had spread to her brain, causing several complications.

She was admitted to hospital at the weekend with pneumonia and slipped into a coma yesterday. Linda, whose sister Bernie also died of cancer in 2013, had her surviving siblings by her side when she passed.

Born in 1969, Linda joined her sisters Anne, Denise, Maureen, Bernie and Coleen as The Nolan Sisters – later simply The Nolans – in 1974.

The group went on to score a clutch of major hits in the UK, and supported Frank Sinatra on tour. After leaving the group, Linda also supported Gene Pitney as a solo artist.

As well as her singing career, Linda had a number of musical theatre roles, including Prisoner: Cell Block H - The Musical and Blood Brothers. She regularly appeared on TV in he later years, and came second on Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.