‘Heartbroken’ Catherine Zeta Jones has led the tributes to Bonnie Tyler.
The Total Eclipse of the Heart singer died on Wednesday, two months after undergoing emergency surgery.
Zeta-Jones wrote on Instagram that her heart was “broken” with the news that “our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away”.
She added, “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. Thank you Bonnie for the joy you brought so many. Sleep tight beautiful lady.”
Bonnie, who was born Gaynor Hopkins in Neath, Wales, sang Total Eclipse of the Heart at Zeta-Jones’ wedding to Michael Douglas in 2000. Bonnie is survived by her husband Robert Sullivan, who is Zeta-Jones’s cousin.
Other Welsh stars also expressed their condolences. Shakin’ Stevens called her “a true professional, and a bright, shining light,” writing that “She loved life and inspired the rest of us to do the same.”
The Prince of Wales described Tyler as a “proud Welsh icon,” writing, “Her extraordinary voice and unforgettable music touched millions around the world and will continue to inspire generations to come.” He signed his Instagram post off with “Diolch am y gerddoriaeth” which is Welsh for “thank you for the music”.
Sir Cliff Richard said he was mourning “another wonderful friend gone too soon,” writing, “Bonnie’s infectious zest for life entertained so many around the world,” adding she was “a good friend to all, including me”.
Bryan Adams wrote on X that Tyler “had such a great voice”, adding he would “always be grateful for her beautiful version” of his track, Straight from the Heart.
Rod Stewart paid tribute by performing Tyler’s It’s a Heartache at an event in Gleneagles.
Tyler received three Grammy Award nominations and three Brit Award nominations. She was awarded an MBE for her services to music in 2022.
