Britain’s Got Talent star Will Read has died at the age of 51.
The musician died at his home in Macclesfield on August 7 with his friend and brother by his side following a battle with
Will famously performed alongside judge David Walliams in the ITV show’s final in 2012, as part of the comedy act The Showbears.
The group famously stole the show with their sparkly sailor suits, with David also dressed in one himself when he took to the stage in the final.
Read later joined Gloria Estefan’s band on her 2013 European tour, travelling to countries including Belgium and Switzerland.
Britain’s Got Talent star Will Read (pictured second right) has died at the age of 51, after competing on the ITV show in 2012 alongside comedy musical act The Showbears
Friends of Will shared their tributes to him on Facebook, with poses including: Sleep peacefully Will, what a beautiful soul you were.’
Another said: ‘Such a great friend and a loveable character. You will be missed. Rest easy my friend.’
The singer’s obituary notice read: ‘Will aged 51 years of Macclesfield, peacefully passed away on Wednesday 7th August 2024.
‘Dearly loved son of Kate, much loved brother of Tom, cherished brother in law of Marianne and fabulous uncle of Jimmy and Liam.
‘Will was an accomplished musician excelling in percussion, drum and vocals.
“He toured with Gloria Estefan and crusied the world as a musical director in his sucessful career.
“He will be greatly missed by all his family, many friends and colleagues.’
The Showbears were eliminated from BGT in the second semi-final, but in the final, they made a sensational return as David took to the stage.
The hilarious performance sparked a flurry of red buzzers from judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Simon Cowell.
