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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Annabel Nugent and Isobel Lewis

Tom Parker death: The Wanted star dies of brain cancer, aged 33

Tom Dymond/Shutterstock

The Wanted star Tom Parker has died aged 33.

The singer was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour in 2020.

His wife, Kelsey Parker, confirmed to The Sun that Parker died on Wednesday (30 March).

She said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm Tom passed away peacefully earlier today with all of his family by his side. Our hearts are broken.

“Tom was the centre of our world and we can’t imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.”

Kelsey went on to thank “everyone who has supported in his care throughout”, adding that he “fought until the very end”.

“We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all ensure Tom’s light continues to shine for his beautiful children,” she said.

Parker (far left) on stage with The Wanted in November (Getty Images for BAUER)

Parker shares two children with his wife Kelsey, two-year-old daughter Aurelia, and one-year-old son Bodhi.

The singer was diagnosed with an inoperable tumour in October 2020, just weeks before Bodhi was born. At the time, Parker said he was “devastated” and in “complete shock”.

Parker found fame in 2009 as a member of boyband The Wanted alongside Nathan Sykes, Siva Kaneswaren, Max George and Jay McGuinness.

The group released three albums and 12 UK top 20 singles including “All Time Low” and “Glad You Came” before splitting in 2014.

In September, the band announced that they were reuniting seven years after splitting and releasing a greatest hits album titled Most Wanted.

Earlier this month, they completed a two-week arena tour across the UK. However, Parker was not able to perform at the earlier shows as he underwent cancer treatment.

This is a breaking news story – more to follow…

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