An Australian theatre actor who was set to star Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5: The Musical has tragically died at the age of 38.
Luke Lynch was originally cast in the iconic role of Dick in the stage musical, based on the 1980 film of the same name starring Dolly, for a stint at Rockdale Town Hall.
However, just days before the show’s opening night, Luke ‘unexpectedly’ died, with the Rockdale Musical Society (RMS) taking to social media to pay tribute to him.
The musical opened on Friday night and a tribute was reportedly made to Luke by placing a photograph of him and a cowboy hat he wore in a previous role on stage.
The RMS shared an emotional statement remembered their ‘cherished’ and ‘dear friend’, while they also paid tribute to Luke’s partner of three years, Dean Caines.
Australian theatre actor Luke Lynch, who was set to star Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5: The Musical, has tragically died at the age of 38, the Rockdale Musical Society (RMS) has announced
In a Facebook post, they wrote on April 22: ‘Last week, we suffered a profound loss within our community. Luke Lynch, a cherished member, cast mate, and dear friend, left us unexpectedly.
‘Luke had recently graced our stage in our production of Heathers and was eagerly working on his role as Dick in our coming production of 9 to 5.
‘Tragically, Luke passed away last Thursday, leaving a void that deeply affects not only the cast, crew, and production team of 9 to 5 but also the entire RMS community.
‘As we prepare for opening night of 9 to 5, Luke’s absence is and will be felt.
‘Our hearts and thoughts are with Luke’s partner Dean, his family, friends, and with Luke himself, we also offer our deepest sympathies to all those whom Luke has impacted with his friendship, guidance, and humor.
‘Rest peacefully, friend, forever cherished in our hearts and amidst the glow of the theater community.’
The RMS shared an emotional statement remembered their ‘cherished’ and ‘dear friend’, while they also paid tribute to Luke’s partner of three years, Dean Caines
His partner Dean also paid tribute, telling News.com.au: ‘He was an incredible singer and everybody that would hear him sing would just be absolutely floored.’
‘He would show up for people when they needed him,’ he added.
Dean has set up a GoFundMe campaign in a bid to fundraise for funeral costs and organising Luke’s affairs after his ‘unexpected’ passing.
Dean said: ‘He was so loved, making sure that we can have a wake where over 100 people can attend. It costs money. There’s so much that I never accounted for.’
The fundraiser has already seen more than $4,000 in donations registered from their family and friends.
A description on the page reads: ‘Hi everyone, it’s Dean here. As you all know I was Luke’s partner for the last 3 years.
Luke Lynch was originally cast in the role of Dick in the musical, based on the 1980 film of the same name, for a stint at Rockdale Town Hall (pictured: The show on Broadway in 2008)
‘With Luke’s unexpected passing, I have been met with unexpected costs dealing with all of Luke’s affairs and ensuring that we can all celebrate his life the best way that we can.
‘I am reaching out to everyone that loved and cared for Luke to see if they can help contribute.
‘I am only looking to raise a fraction of what the expenses are but anything helps. Everything raised will help cover costs. Thank you so much.’
Luke, who was also a veterinary nurse, was well-known within community theatre circles and previously starred in Heathers the musical.
Back in 2022, he also secured his dream role as Anthony ‘Tick’ Belrose, the lead character in Priscilla the musical.
