Tributes have been paid tonight to The Wanted's Tom Parker after his wife announced that he has died at 33. Kelsey Parker posted confirming the death at 5pm, saying "our hearts are broken".
She ended her statement: "He fought until the very end. I’m forever proud of you." Tom, who grew up in Bolton, announced in October 2020 that he had been diagnosed with an inoperable grade 4 tumour.
Celebrities have been paying their respects to Tom online and remembering his best moments. The tributes come from all quarters, including other popstars and TV hosts and even celebrities who Tom worked alongside to raise charity funds for cancer treatment.
Ed Sheeran wrote on Instagram: “So sad to hear of Tom’s passing. Thoughts and love are with Kelsey, his children and his family. Very sad day, what a lovely guy.”
Howard Donald of Take That said on Twitter: “So young and so sad. RIP @TomParker from @thewanted. Strength and love to his family.”
Singer Joe McElderry, who won The X Factor in 2009, tweeted: “So very very sad (emoji) life can be cruel! My thoughts to his family and friends.”
TV presenter Rylan Clark also paid tribute.
He said: “I’ve just seen the news about Tom and that’s absolutely gutting. He was such a good’un. So sad to hear.
“Sending my love to Kelsey and the kids. Awful news x #RipTom x”
Actor Tamzin Outhwaite @mouthwaite retweeted the news of Tom's death, adding: "This has floored me. Sending love and light to Tom’s wife and children. So unbelievably tragic. R.I.P Tom Parker."
Ex-footballer and cancer survivor John Hartson @JohnHartson10 added: "Extremely sad to hear that Tom Parker has passed away.. had a great time with him when we were filming the Full Monty show.. my thoughts are with the whole Parker family and friends RIP Tom."
Ballroom dancer and former Strictly star James Jordan @The_JamesJordan commented: "Just heard that Tom Parker passed away - the same wicked disease that took my father My thoughts and prayers are with his family He was a very special man that I had the honour of meeting several times Rest In Peace brother. My dad will be there waiting for you with a beer."
Martin Kemp @realmartinkemp tweeted: "Tom Parker, rest in peace my love goes out to all your family and all your friends.. your bravery, your fight and your spirit will never be forgotten."
On Kelsey's Instagram post people were just as shocked. Olympian Rebecca Adlington (beckadlington) said: "I’m so sorry Kelsey. Sending so much love to you, the kids and all your family. So heartbroken for you. Xxxx"
YouTuber and actor Jennifer Veal added: "Kels, I’m so so sorry. Such heartbreaking news. He will live on in you and your beautiful children. Sending you all the love in the world."
The band formed in 2009 and went on to have success across the world, returning recently with a greatest hits record and tour. Tom married Kelsey Hardwick in 2018. They have a daughter, born in 2019, and a son, born in 2020.
