Prince William and Kate Middleton ‘deeply saddened’ in emotional joint message

The Prince of Wales said he and his wife, the Princess of Wales, are “deeply saddened” following the death of Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler.

The future King, 44, shared an emotional message to the global popstar, alongside a photo of himself with Bonnie when she received her MBE from William at Windsor Castle in 2023.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bonnie Tyler. A proud Welsh icon, her extraordinary voice and unforgettable music touched millions around the world and will continue to inspire generations to come.

“Our thoughts are with her husband, family, friends and all who loved her,” William’s words concluded with: “Diolch am y gerddoriaeth,” which means ‘thank you for the music’ in Welsh. 

Special words for William 

Back in 2023, Bonnie spoke about the honour of being presented with her MBE, which she received for her services to music, by the Prince of Wales.

“To have this presented to me, my MBE,  by the Prince of Wales is such an honour, magnificent. It’s a very exciting day, one I’ll never forget. I’m a very happy girl.” See the moment in the video below.

What happened to Bonnie?

News of Bonnie’s death came on Thursday morning, when a statement on her official website explained she had passed away “unexpectedly” in a hospital in Portugal.

The statement read: “Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for.”

© Redferns

In May, the Total Eclipse of the Heart hitmaker was placed into an induced coma after having emergency intestinal surgery in a hospital near her home in Faro, Portugal.

In June, Bonnie’s team explained that the It’s a Heartache singer was no longer in a coma but remained “very unwell and in intensive care in hospital in Portugal.”

“Although her condition is improving, it is a slow process,” a post on her website read. “Her doctors remain confident that she will make a good recovery, but it is going to take time.”

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Bonnie is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan.

Emotional tributes

From the moment Bonnie’s death was announced, tributes poured in from friends and fans of the Grammy nominee.

Catherine Zeta-Jones said her “heart is broken” after the singer’s death. Bonnie’s husband, Robert, is the Chicago actress’s cousin.  “My heart is broken with the news that our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away,” the Oscar-winning actress penned. “Bonnie was married to my cousin and has been such a part of my life.”

“We are photographed here together the night before my wedding. [She] sang and rocked it at my wedding. An extraordinary woman with vocals to match,” Catherine gushed. “A one of a kind artist, who so easily could have been a comedian because she was one of the funniest people I ever met.”

© Instagram

“Thank you, Bonnie, for the joy you brought so many. Sleep tight, beautiful lady. We shall forever ‘Keep A Welcome In The Hillsides’ of Wales for you. Sending my love to Robert and the family. God bless.”

Mezzo-soprano singer Katherine Jenkins also paid tribute. “Heartbroken to hear of the passing of the incredible Bonnie Tyler,” the Welsh performer wrote on Instagram.

“A true Welsh legend whose unmistakable voice inspired generations and put Wales on the world stage with such power, passion and authenticity. Growing up in the same part of the world as Bonnie, makes this loss feel especially close to home. 

“She showed so many of us what was possible so today, we’re all holding out for a hero… and saying goodbye to one of our very own,” she continued, adding: “Rest peacefully, Bonnie. Your music, your spirit and your legacy will live on forever.”